Class: Phenothiazine
Dosage Forms. Tablet: 5 mg, 10 mg; Rectal Suppositories: 25 mg
Common FDA Label Indication, Dosing, and Titration.
1. Nausea and vomiting: Adults, 5-10 mg po 3-4 times daily; daily dosages above 40 mg should be used only in resistant cases; Children 2 y and older and 20-29 pounds, 2.5 mg po or pr daily-bid, max of 7.5 mg/d; 30-39 pounds, 2.5 mg po or pr bid-tid, max 10 mg/d; 40-85 pounds, 2.5-5 mg po or pr tid, max of 15 mg/d
Off Label Uses. None
MOA. Prochloperpazine is dopamine (D2) receptor antagonist that belongs to the phenothiazine class of antipsychotic agents.
Drug Characteristics: Prochlorperazine
Medication Safety Issues: Prochlorperazine
Drug Interactions: Prochlorperazine
Adverse Reactions: Prochlorperazine
Efficacy Monitoring Parameters. Resolution of nausea and vomiting.
Toxicity Monitoring Parameters. Excessive drowsiness, decreased breathing, seizures, unusual bruising or bleeding.
Key Patient Counseling Points. May cause drowsiness; avoid driving or other tasks requiring motor coordination. Avoid alcohol.
Clinical Pearls. Use caution in elderly, appear more sensitive to the effects. Prochlorperazine is FDA approved for schizophrenia, although seldom used. Has been replaced with atypical antipsychotics, which are more effective and less toxic. Prochlorperazine is effective for the short-term treatment of generalized nonpsychotic anxiety, although seldom used. Has been replaced with benzodiazepines, which are more effective and less toxic.