PROCHLORPERAZINE SUSTAINED ACTION CAPSULE - ORAL (Compazine) side effects, medical uses, and drug interactions.

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GENERIC NAME: PROCHLORPERAZINE SUSTAINED ACTION CAPSULE - ORAL (pro-klor-PAIR-uh-zeen)

BRAND NAME(S): Compazine

USES: This medication is used to control nausea and vomiting or to provide a calming effect.

HOW TO USE: Take by mouth as directed by your doctor. Swallow whole. Do not crush or chew because it will destroy the long action of this medication and may increase side effects. May be taken with food or milk to lessen stomach irritation. Do not take more medication than prescribed.

SIDE EFFECTS: Constipation, drowsiness, vision changes or dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Unlikely to occur, but report promptly: restlessness, muscle stiffness, weakness, difficulty speaking, loss of balance, mask- like facial expressions, trembling or shaking, dizziness, lip smacking or other uncontrollable movements, difficulty urinating, skin rash/discoloration. Very unlikely to occur, but report promptly: sore throat, unusual bleeding or bruising, stomach pain, yellowing of eyes or skin, dark urine, hot dry skin, vomiting. Though very unlikely to occur, notify your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following effects: severe muscle stiffness, confusion, fever, seizures, irregular/fast heartbeat, increased sweating, prolonged/painful erection. In the unlikely event you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: very high or very low blood pressure, liver or heart disease, Reye's syndrome, alcohol or drug dependencies, nervous system problems, blood disorders, allergies (especially drug allergies). Because this medication may make you drowsy, use caution performing tasks that require alertness such as driving or using machinery. Use of alcohol can cause extreme drowsiness. Avoid alcohol use. This medication may increase sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear a sunscreen and protective clothing when you are exposed to the sun. This medication can reduce sweating making you more susceptible to heat stroke. Avoid strenuous work or exercise in hot weather. The manufacturer of this drug does not recommend its use during pregnancy. However, it may be used in certain cases. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Certain drugs closely related to this one (phenothiazines) have been detected in breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.