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prochlorperazine - rectal, Compazine

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GENERIC NAME: PROCHLORPERAZINE - RECTAL (pro-klor-PAIR-uh-zeen)

BRAND NAME(S): Compazine

Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

WARNING: There may be a slightly increased risk of serious, possibly fatal side effects (such as pneumonia, heart failure) when this medication is used in older adults with dementia. This medication is not approved for the treatment of dementia-related behavior problems. Discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.

USES: This medication is used to treat severe nausea and vomiting from various causes (e.g., anti-cancer treatment, migraine headaches, after surgery).Prochlorperazine is a phenothiazine medication that works by affecting the balance of natural chemicals (neurotransmitters) in the brain to reduce nausea and the urge to vomit.This medication is not recommended for use in children under 2 years old or during surgery on children.

HOW TO USE: Unwrap and insert one suppository rectally as directed by your doctor. Remain lying down for a few minutes, and avoid having a bowel movement for an hour or longer so the drug will be absorbed. The suppository is for rectal use only.The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to therapy. Do not increase your dose or use this medication more often without your doctor's approval. Your condition will not improve any faster, and the risk of serious side effects may be increased.If you are using this medication on a prescribed schedule, use it regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same time(s) each day.Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.

SIDE EFFECTS: Constipation, drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute.Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: agitation/restlessness, face/muscle twitching, uncontrolled movements, drooling, trouble swallowing, difficulty talking, enlarged/tender breasts, unusual breast milk production, shaking (tremors), trouble urinating.Tell your doctor immediately if any of these rare but very serious side effects occur: dark urine, persistent nausea/vomiting, signs of infection (e.g., fever, persistent sore throat), severe abdominal pain, unusual bleeding/bruising, weakness, yellowing eyes/skin.This drug may infrequently cause a very serious (rarely fatal) nervous system disorder (neuroleptic malignant syndrome). If you notice any of the following unlikely but very serious side effects, stop using this medication and seek immediate medical attention: severe muscle stiffness, mental/mood changes (e.g., confusion, extreme drowsiness), very high fever, seizures, irregular/fast heartbeat, increased sweating.In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.