Uses of Prochlorperazine

It is used to treat balance problems or dizziness (vertigo) due to inner ear problems such as meniere’s syndrome or labyrinthitis, nausea and vomiting (due to migraine or other causes), mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and mania (over-active behaviour or thoughts). It is also used to treat anxiety in the short term.

Therapeutic Category

Prochlorperazine: Phenothiazines

How Prochlorperazine works

Prochlorperazine works by balancing the chemicals called dopamine and serotonin (that allows communication between nerve cells) and helps to treat mental illness. It also blocks the action of a chemical called dopamine (transfers messages to part of the brain called vomiting centre which triggers nausea and vomiting) in the brain. Thus, helps to treat nausea and vomiting effectively.

Common side effects of Prochlorperazine

• drowsiness
• restlessness
• symptoms of parkinsonism such as tremors, rigidity, loss of movement
• blurred vision
• postural hypotension
• constipation
• dry mouth

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• rashes, difficulty in swallowing or breathing, swelling of the lips, face, throat or tongue (signs of allergic reaction)
• neuroleptic malignant syndrome which includes symptoms such as an unusually pale complexion, sweating, rise in temperature, rapid heartbeat, stiff muscles, increased breathing rate, confusion, drowsiness or agitation
• agranulocytosis or leukopenia (a blood disorder characterised by frequent infections such as fever, sore throat or mouth ulcers)
• jaundice (yellowing of skin or eyes)
• palpitations (fast, uneven and forceful heartbeats) and breathing problems like wheezing, shortness of breath and chest pain or tightness
• blood clots in the veins of the legs (swelling, pain and redness in the leg), which may travel through blood vessels to the lungs causing chest pain and difficulty in breathing)
• extrapyramidal symptoms such as rigid or stiff muscles, trembling or shaking, body spasm, unusual eye movements such as rolling of the eyes, exaggeration of reflexes, drooling, difficulty moving or loss of muscle power
• sore breast in both men and women
• seizures or fits
• long-lasting and painful erection of the penis

Health Tips for Prochlorperazine

• Take prochlorperazine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less than the recommended dose, and do not stop taking it without consulting your doctor
• Prochlorperazine may cause dry mouth, so it's essential to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day
• Prochlorperazine is not recommended for use in pregnant or breastfeeding women
• Avoid or limit alcohol consumption and certain substances while taking Prochlorperazine, as it may increase the risk of certain side effects