Prochlorperazine
Where is Prochlorperazine used?
Prochlorperazine is a prescription medicine used to treat nausea and vomiting. This is used in a lower dose to treat the condition. This prescription may also be used for the treatment of anxiety and a certain psychiatric illness called schizophrenia.
Prochlorperazine is a type of drug known as phenothiazine. This blocks dopamine receptors in the brain. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that is involved in transmitting messages between brain cells. It acts in an area of the brain that controls nausea and vomiting.
How does Prochlorperazine work?
In nausea and vomiting, Prochlorperazine blocks dopamine receptors found in the chemoreceptor trigger zone (CTZ). Wherein, it stops it from sending messages to the vomiting center that causes nausea and vomiting. Vomiting is controlled by an area of the brain called the vomiting center. The vomiting center is accountable for triggering feelings of sickness and for the vomiting impulse. It activates when receives nerve messages from another area of the brain called CTZ and when it receives nerve messages from the gut.
In psychiatric illness, this medicine is sometimes described as a neuroleptic or a major tranquilizer. It has a calming effect on people suffering from anxiety. Schizophrenia is thought to be caused by the overactivity of dopamine in the brain. By blocking dopamine receptors, Prochlorperazine decreases the action of dopamine in the brain and helps control psychotic symptoms.
How is Prochlorperazine taken?
The prescribed dosage is based on your medical condition, age, and response to it. Prochlorperazine is to be taken by mouth with a full glass of water. Drink plenty of fluids while having this treatment. Doing so may lessen the risk of certain side effects. It is usually taken 3 to 4 times a day or as directed by your doctor. You may take each dose with or without a meal.
To help you remember, take it at the same time and in the same way each day. Take it regularly for the best result from this product. Do not suddenly stop taking Prochlorperazine without the consent of your doctor. It is important to continue taking this even if you feel well. Let your doctor know if your condition gets worse or does not improve.
What are the possible side effects of Prochlorperazine?
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision
- Stuffy nose
- Constipation
- Headache
Stop taking Prochlorperazine and call your doctor right away if these occur:
- Tremors or shaking in your arms or legs
- Little or no urinating
- Trouble swallowing
- A light-headed feeling
- Severe nervous system reaction
What are the precautions in taking Prochlorperazine?
- This product is not recommended for use in children younger than 2 years or in children going through surgery.
- This is also not recommended for use in elderly people with dementia.
- Before taking a dose of Prochlorperazine, tell your doctor if you have any medical history especially of breathing problems, liver disease, stomach problems, or certain brain disorders.
- Prochlorperazine may make you dizzy. Do not use any machinery or do anything that needs your alertness.
- Let your doctor know if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this drug. This product may have an inactive ingredient that causes an allergic reaction.
