Prochlorpromazine

Prochlorpromazine Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Prochlorpromazine is a brand name. Its generic name is Prochlorperazine.

Introduction

Prochlorpromazine is a phenothiazine medication usually used to control vertigo, nausea, and vomiting. It is also prescribed for various types of schizophrenic disorder.

Uses for

Prochlorpromazine is used to treat nausea, vomiting, and dizziness due to motion sickness, pregnancy, or vertigo. It is also used to decrease feelings of anxiety, tension, and agitation, as well as to treat certain types of psychotic disorders.

Mechanism of Action

Prochlorpromazine works by reducing activity in certain areas of the brain, preventing the transmission of messages that stimulate vomiting and nausea. It also blocks dopamine receptors in the brain, leading to calming effects.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

Prochlorpromazine typically starts to work within 20 minutes of taking a dose. The effects can last up to 8 hours.

Absorption

Prochlorpromazine is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration.

Route of Elimination

Prochlorpromazine is eliminated through the kidneys.

Dosage

The recommended dose of prochlorperazine depends on the particular use:

• To prevent nausea and vomiting due to motion sickness, the usual dose is 5 mg taken 1 to 2 hours before motion begins.
• To prevent nausea and vomiting during or after surgery, the usual dose is 5 to 10 mg taken 1 to 2 hours before the start of surgery.
• To treat vertigo, the usual dose is 5 mg taken 3 times daily.
• To treat psychotic disorders, the usual starting dose is 10-15 mg taken 3 times daily or 25 mg taken 2 times daily.

Administration

Prochlorpromazine is taken orally, usually 1 to 2 hours before activity or surgery. It can also be taken up to 3 times daily for vertigo or psychotic disorders.

Side Effects

Common side effects of prochlorperazine include: drowsiness, dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, dizziness, and restlessness.

Toxicity

Prochlorpromazine can cause serious toxicity. Symptoms of an overdose include confusion, restlessness, tremors, headache, fever, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, and seizures. If overdose is suspected, seek medical help immediately.

Precautions

Prochlorpromazine should not be taken by those who are hypersensitive to the drug or have a history of stroke, severe liver disease, or severe renal failure. It may also interfere with mental and physical activities and should be used with caution in patients with epilepsy or impaired kidney or liver function.

Interactions

Prochlorpromazine can interact with a variety of medications, including some antacids, alcohol, narcotics, and other medications that affect the central nervous system. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking when you are prescribed prochlorperazine.

Disease Interactions

Prochlorpromazine can interact with a variety of diseases and conditions, including epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, glaucoma, brain tumors, and closed-angle glaucoma. It is important to tell your doctor about any known health conditions when you are prescribed prochlorperazine.

Drug Interactions

Prochlorpromazine can interact with a variety of drugs, including alcohol, barbiturates, narcotic pain relievers, and sedatives. Tell your doctor if you are taking any medications when prescribed prochlorperazine.

Food Interactions

Prochlorpromazine must be taken on an empty stomach. Do not take with or between meals or within two hours of taking antacids.

Pregnancy Use

Prochlorpromazine should not be taken during pregnancy as it may cause harm to the fetus. If you are pregnant, are planning to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, you should speak to your doctor first before taking Prochlorpromazine.

Lactation Use

Prochlorpromazine should not be taken while breastfeeding as it may be passed to the baby through breastmilk. If you are breastfeeding, you should speak to your doctor first before taking Prochlorpromazine.

Acute Overdose

An overdose of prochlorperazine can cause serious toxicity. Symptoms of an overdose include confusion, restlessness, tremors, headache, fever, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, and seizures. If overdose is suspected, seek medical help immediately.

Contraindication

Prochlorpromazine should not be taken by those who have a history of stroke, severe liver disease, or severe renal failure. It may also interfere with mental and physical activities.

Use Direction

Prochlorpromazine should be taken as directed by your doctor's instructions. It must be taken on an empty stomach. Do not take with or between meals or within two hours of taking antacids.

Storage Condition

Prochlorpromazine should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Volume of Distribution

The volume of distribution of prochlorperazine is approximately 0.6 L/kg.

Half Life

The elimination half-life of prochlorperazine is approximately 18 hours.

Clearance

The clearance of prochlorperazine is approximately 0.3 L/h/kg.

Here you find in details version of Prochlorpromazine

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Prochlorpromazine

What is Prochlorpromazine?

Prochlorpromazine is an antipsychotic medication often used to treat psychosis, severe nausea and vomiting, and moderate to severe pain. It is also sometimes used as a sedative for anxiety or to help reduce the effects of vertigo.

How does Prochlorpromazine work?

Prochlorpromazine acts on certain neurotransmitters in the brain to reduce the effects of psychosis and to reduce nausea and vomiting. It also may exert some calming effects on the central nervous system, helping to reduce anxiety.

What conditions is Prochlorpromazine used to treat?

Prochlorpromazine is used to treat a variety of conditions, including psychosis, severe nausea and vomiting, moderate to severe pain, and anxiety or to reduce the effects of vertigo.

What are the side effects of Prochlorpromazine?

Common side effects of Prochlorpromazine include drowsiness, constipation, dry mouth, blurred vision, and restlessness. Less common side effects can include dizziness, increased heart rate, and confusion. Speak with your doctor if you experience any side effects.

What are the warnings associated with Prochlorpromazine?

Prochlorpromazine can cause increased intraocular pressure, making glaucoma symptoms worse, and can worsen symptoms of Parkinson’s disease. If you suffer from any of these conditions, discuss them with your doctor before taking Prochlorpromazine. Patients with narrow-angle glaucoma, liver disease, kidney disease, or increased pressure in the brain should not take Prochlorpromazine. It is also recommended that pregnant women not take Prochlorpromazine.

What precautions should I take when taking Prochlorpromazine?

When taking Prochlorpromazine, you should avoid drinking alcohol as it can increase sedation. You may also experience drowsiness and can become less alert, so it is important to not drive or use machinery until you know how Prochlorpromazine affects you. Prochlorpromazine can also worsen some medical conditions, so it is important to tell your doctor of any changes in your health before beginning treatment.

What are the possible drug interactions with Prochlorpromazine?

Prochlorpromazine may interact with a variety of medications, including other antipsychotics, antiparkinsonian drugs, anticholinergics, other sedatives, blood pressure medications, muscle relaxants, drugs used to treat depression, anticoagulants, and anticonvulsants. Talk to your doctor about any other medications you are taking before taking Prochlorpromazine.

Can I take Prochlorpromazine if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

It is not advised to take Prochlorpromazine while pregnant or breastfeeding. Speak to your doctor about other options for nausea or psychosis before taking Prochlorpromazine.

How long does it take for Prochlorpromazine to work?

The effects of Prochlorpromazine can be felt within 30 minutes to 2 hours. However, it may take up to two weeks for Prochlorpromazine to take full effect.

Can I take Prochlorpromazine for long-term use?

Prochlorpromazine can be taken for long-term use, but it is best to discuss the risks and benefits of long-term use with your doctor. Prochlorpromazine may be habit-forming, so it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions for taking it.

Is Prochlorpromazine addictive?

Prochlorpromazine has the potential to be addictive if taken in higher doses than prescribed, or for longer than directed by the prescribing doctor.

Can I take Prochlorpromazine with ibuprofen?

It is not advised to take Prochlorpromazine with ibuprofen, as they can interact and cause adverse effects. Speak to your doctor about taking ibuprofen with Prochlorpromazine.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Prochlorpromazine?

If you miss a dose of Prochlorpromazine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose as normal. Do not double your dose to make up for a missed one.

What can I take to counteract the side effects of Prochlorpromazine?

Some common side effects of Prochlorpromazine can be alleviated by drinking plenty of fluids, eating a low-fat, high-fiber diet, and avoiding caffeine. If you experience drowsiness, try to limit activities such as operating heavy machinery and driving until you can gauge how Prochlorpromazine affects you. If constipation is a problem, your doctor may prescribe a laxative.

What forms does Prochlorpromazine come in?

Prochlorpromazine comes in several forms, including oral tablets, oral liquid, rectal suppositories, and injectable solutions.

How do I store Prochlorpromazine?

Prochlorpromazine should be stored at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

What is the recommended dosage of Prochlorpromazine?

The recommended dosage of Prochlorpromazine will vary depending on the condition being treated and the age of the patient. It is important to follow the instructions on your prescription label, and if in doubt speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Can I buy Prochlorpromazine over the counter?

No, Prochlorpromazine is not available over the counter and must be prescribed by a doctor. Speak with your doctor if you think Prochlorpromazine may be an appropriate treatment for you.

How long should I take Prochlorpromazine?

The length of time you take Prochlorpromazine will depend on your condition, and how effective the drug is for you. Speak to your doctor for advice on when is the best time to stop treatment.

Does Prochlorpromazine cause weight gain?

Prochlorpromazine can cause weight gain in some individuals. Speak to your doctor if this happens and they may adjust your dose or prescribe another medication.

Can I take Prochlorpromazine with other medications?

Prochlorpromazine may interact with other medications, so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medications you are taking before taking Prochlorpromazine. It is especially important to tell your doctor if you are taking any other antipsychotics, antiparkinsonian drugs, anticholinergics, other sedatives, blood pressure medications, muscle relaxants, drugs used to treat depression, anticoagulants, or anticonvulsants.

Can Prochlorpromazine cause an allergic reaction?

Yes, Prochlorpromazine may cause an allergic reaction in some individuals. Symptoms of an allergic reaction typically include hives, rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling of areas such as the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If these or other severe symptoms are present, call emergency medical services immediately.

Can Prochlorpromazine cause insomnia?

Yes, Prochlorpromazine can cause insomnia in some individuals. Some ways to combat insomnia may be to take Prochlorpromazine after meals, avoid high doses of caffeine or alcohol, and try to stick to a sleep schedule. Speak to your doctor if you are experiencing insomnia.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Prochlorpromazine?

It is not advised to drink alcohol while taking Prochlorpromazine, as it can increase sedation. Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have about drinking while taking Prochlorpromazine.

Can Prochlorpromazine cause constipation?

Yes, constipation is a common side effect of taking Prochlorpromazine. To lessen the likelihood of constipation, make sure to drink plenty of fluids, eat a high-fiber diet, and get regular exercise. If constipation becomes a problem, your doctor may prescribe a laxative.

Can Prochlorpromazine cause anxiety?

Although it is not a common side effect, Prochlorpromazine can cause anxiety in some individuals. This is more likely to occur when taking higher doses than prescribed. Speak to your doctor if you experience anxiety while taking Prochlorpromazine.

Does Prochlorpromazine interact with other drugs?

Yes, Prochlorpromazine can interact with certain medications, including other antipsychotics, antiparkinsonian drugs, and anticholinergics. It is important to tell your doctor of any other medications you are taking before taking Prochlorpromazine.

Can Prochlorpromazine be used to treat headaches?

Yes, Prochlorpromazine can be used to treat headaches as it can decrease the activity of the nerves that cause pain. However, Prochlorpromazine is usually not the first option for treating headaches and should only be used after other treatments have been ineffective.

Can Prochlorpromazine cause blurred vision?

Yes, blurred vision is a common side effect of Prochlorpromazine. If this occurs, speak to your doctor about changing the dose or trying another medication.

Can Prochlorpromazine be used to treat vertigo?

Yes, Prochlorpromazine can be used to reduce the effects of vertigo, as it can reduce activity of the nerves involved in the disorder. Speak to your doctor for advice on whether Prochlorpromazine is an appropriate treatment for your condition.

Can Prochlorpromazine cause dry mouth?

Yes, dry mouth is a common side effect of Prochlorpromazine. Drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding alcohol can help to counteract this side effect.

When taking Prochlorpromazine, should I take it with food?

It is generally advised to take Prochlorpromazine with food, as this can help to reduce the chance of side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. However, it is important to follow your doctor and pharmacist’s advice.

Can Prochlorpromazine cause increased heart rate?

Yes, increased heart rate is a rare but possible side effect of Prochlorpromazine. If you experience increased heart rate while taking Prochlorpromazine, speak to your doctor.

Can Prochlorpromazine cause drowsiness?

Yes, drowsiness is a common side effect of Prochlorpromazine. If this occurs, it is advised to not operate heavy machinery or drive until you can gauge the effects of Prochlorpromazine on you.

Does Prochlorpromazine worsen glaucoma?

Yes, Prochlorpromazine can worsen glaucoma. If you suffer from glaucoma, speak to your doctor about any potential risks before taking Prochlorpromazine.

Should I take Prochlorpromazine at the same time every day?

It is generally advised to take Prochlorpromazine at the same time every day. Taking it with food can help to reduce side effects such as nausea. Speak to your doctor for advice on when is the best time to take your Prochlorpromazine.

Can Prochlorpromazine cause confusion?

Yes, confusion is a rare but possible side effect of taking Prochlorpromazine. Speak to your doctor if you experience confusion while taking Prochlorpromazine.

Can Prochlorpromazine cause restlessness?

Yes, restlessness is a common side effect of taking Prochlorpromazine. However, it is usually mild and fades with time. Talk to your doctor if the restlessness persists or worsens.