Details
Presentation:
12.5 mg in 1mL glass ampoule
Route:
IM
Onset of action:
10 – 20 minutes
Duration:
3 – 4 hours
Mode of action
Dopamine antagonist – antiemetic effects are primarily due to D2 receptor blockade. Also acts on other neurotransmitter systems including histaminic, cholinergic and α-adrenergic receptors
- Nausea and vomiting in patient ≥ 21 years of age; specifically for
- Known allergy or C/I to ondansetron
- Vestibular nausea
- Headache (irrespective of nausea / vomiting)
- CNS depression (i.e. unconscious or severely intoxicated)
- Patients < 21 years of age.
Children and young adults are more susceptible to extrapyramidal reactions with prochlorperazine.
- Elderly patients
More susceptible to adverse effects
- Parkinson’s disease
Can worsen symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, avoid if possible
- CNS: Sedation, blurred vision
- CV: Postural hypotension, QT prolongation (rare)
- Other: Extrapyramidal reactions
Significant interactions
- Nil
Pregnancy
- Considered safe
High doses or prolonged use in late pregnancy may be associated with an increased risk of withdrawal effects in the newborn
Breastfeeding- Considered safe
Notes
- IV administration of prochlorperazine is not currently approved in AV due to the increased risk of adverse effects.
- Prochlorperazine ampoules require protection from light. The solution should be colourless or very pale yellow. Solutions that are dark yellow in colour should not be administered.
Infusion
- N/A