Prochlorperazine

What is prochlorperazine?

Prochlorperazine is a prescription medication used as an anti-sickness medicine. It is also sometimes used for short term anxiety and psychotic disorders[1].

What is prochlorperazine used to treat?

Prochlorperazine is used to treat[1]: 

• Motion sickness 

• Migraine-associated sickness 

• Nausea after surgery 

• Pregnancy-related nausea (under medical supervision) 

• Vertigo and symptoms of Ménière’s disease 

• Schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders 

• Short-term anxiety 

How does prochlorperazine work?

When used for anti-sickness, prochlorperazine works by blocking the effects of dopamine on the nausea centre of the brain. This reduces the feeling of nausea and the urge to vomit.  

Acting on this chemical dopamine is also how prochlorperazine helps with psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. It is believed that too much dopamine can cause symptoms such as hallucinations, confusion, and paranoia. Blocking some of the effects of dopamine can help to reduce these symptoms allowing you to think more clearly and feel more in control[1]. 

Who can take prochlorperazine?

Prochlorperazine is suitable for most adults and children, and can sometimes be used during pregnancy. 

However, speak to your doctor or pharmacist before taking it if you have any of the following[1]: 

• Parkinson’s disease 

• Liver, kidney or heart problems 

• A history of blood clots 

• Ever had an allergic reaction to prochlorperazine or another medicine 

• Epilepsy or ever had fits 

Always let your doctor or pharmacist know about any medical conditions you have before starting treatment. Make sure to read and follow the guidance in the patient information leaflet (PIL) that comes with the medication[2]. 

How do you take prochlorperazine?

Prochlorperazine comes in two types of tablets[1]: 

• Normal tablets that you swallow whole with water. Take these with or after food 

• Buccal tablets that you place between your upper lip and gum to dissolve. Allow these to fully dissolve before drinking or eating 

What is the typical dosage of prochlorperazine?

The dose and how often you take prochlorperazine will depend on what it’s being used to treat, but it is usually taken two to three times a day. 

For children, the dose is also based on their weight. 

Always follow the instructions given by your doctor or pharmacist. 

Can you stop taking prochlorperazine suddenly?

If you are taking prochlorperazine for short-term use (e.g., nausea), stopping is usually fine[1]. 

Your body will not form a dependency on prochlorperazine. However, if you have been taking it for a long time and stop suddenly, this may cause a return of symptoms or, in some cases, side effects like nausea or restlessness. It is therefore recommended to taper off gradually in this case, and under medical supervision[1]. 

What do you do if you take too much prochlorperazine?

It can be dangerous to take too much prochlorperazine. Call 111 straight away if you have taken more than the prescribed dose. Symptoms of too much prochlorperazine can include drowsiness, irregular heartbeat, and breathing difficulties[1].  

What do you do if you forget to take your prochlorperazine?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time[1]. 

What are the side effects of Prochlorperazine?

The most common side effects include[1]: 

• Drowsiness 

• Dizziness 

• Dry mouth 

• Blurred vision 

• Constipation 

Serious side effects in prochlorperazine are rare[1]: 

• Muscle stiffness, shaking or uncontrollable movements 

• Whites of your eyes or skin turns yellow (kidney problems) 

• Fast or irregular heartbeat 

• Sudden high temperature or an infection 

Call your doctor or 111 straight away if you experience any serious side effects. 

If you think you are having a severe allergic reaction (swelling, difficulty breathing, rash), call 999 or go to A&E immediately. 

If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice. 

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2].

What medicines you can and can’t take with prochlorperazine

Avoid or use with caution with[1]: 

• Other antipsychotics or dopamine antagonists 

• Medicines that make you sleep or drowsy 

• Antidepressants (risk of serotonin syndrome) 

• Antihistamines (can make you drowsy and give you a dry mouth or exacerbate sedation) 

• Parkinson’s medications (may reduce effectiveness) 

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

Frequently asked questions about prochlorperazine

Is prochlorperazine safe during pregnancy? 

Yes, prochlorperazine can be taken during pregnancy although it is recommended to speak to your doctor or pharmacist to find the right treatment for you[1]. 

Can I drink alcohol while taking prochlorperazine? 

It is best to avoid alcohol while taking prochlorperazine as it can increase drowsiness and side effects[1]. 

Is prochlorperazine addictive? 

No, prochlorperazine is not normally addictive, but if you are taking it long-term and you stop suddenly, it can cause withdrawal symptoms like feeling or being sick or a return in the symptoms it was treating. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist before stopping[1]. 

Can I drive while taking prochlorperazine? 

Do not drive if you feel drowsy or dizzy while taking prochlorperazine[1]. 

Will prochlorperazine affect my contraception? 

Prochlorperazine does not affect your contraception. However, if you’re taking prochlorperazine for nausea but you are sick, your contraceptive pills may not protect you. Look at your pill packet to find out what to do[1]. 

For the official NHS guide to prochlorperazine, visit their website.