Brand name: Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine)
Pronounced: pro-klor-PEAR-ah-zine
Why is Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) prescribed?

Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) is used to control severe nausea and vomiting. It is also used to treat symptoms of the mental disorder schizophrenia, and is occasionally prescribed for anxiety.
Most important fact about Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) without prescriptions

Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) may cause tardive dyskinesia--involuntary muscle spasms and twitches in the face and body. This condition may be permanent. It appears to be most common among the elderly, especially women. Ask your doctor for information about this possible risk.
How should you take Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine)?

Never take more Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) than prescribed. It can increase the risk of serious side effects.

If you are using the suppository form of Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) and find it is too soft to insert, you can chill it in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes or run cold water over it before removing the wrapper.

To insert a suppository, first remove the wrapper and moisten the suppository with cold water. Then lie down on your side and use a finger to push the suppository well up into the rectum.

If you miss a dose Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine)

Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never try to "catch up" by doubling the dose.

Storage instructions:

Store at room temperature. Protect from heat and light.
Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine).

* Side effects may include:
Blurred vision, dizziness, drowsiness, jaundice, low blood pressure, menstrual irregularities, neuroleptic malignant syndrome (see "Special warnings about this medication"), skin reactions

Why should Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) not be prescribed?

Do not take Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) if you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) or other phenothiazine drugs such as Thorazine, Prolixin, Triavil, Mellaril, or Stelazine.

Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) should not be given to children who are undergoing surgery.
Special warnings about Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine)

Never take large amounts of alcohol, barbiturates, or narcotics when taking Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine). Serious problems can result.

Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) should be used with caution if you are being treated for a brain tumor, intestinal blockage, heart disease, breast cancer, seizures, glaucoma, or an abnormal bone marrow or blood condition such as leukemia. Also use caution if you're exposed to pesticides or extreme heat.

If you suddenly stop taking Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine), you may experience a change in appetite, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, and tremors. Therapy should be discontinued only under a doctor's supervision.

Due to its ability to prevent vomiting, Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) can mask symptoms of an overdose of other drugs. It could also mask symptoms of brain tumor, intestinal blockage, and the neurological condition known as Reye's syndrome.

Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) should be used cautiously in children suffering from dehydration or an acute illness such as chickenpox, measles, or other infection. The drug should be avoided altogether in children and adolescents who have symptoms that could indicate Reye's syndrome, including persistent or recurrent vomiting, listlessness, irritability, combativeness, and disorientation.

Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) can cause a potentially fatal group of symptoms called Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS). Symptoms include extremely high body temperature, rigid muscles, mental changes, irregular pulse or blood pressure, rapid heartbeat, excessive sweating, and changes in heart rhythm. Alert your doctor immediately if these symptoms develop. Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) therapy will need to be discontinued.

This drug may impair your ability to drive a car or operate potentially dangerous machinery. Do not participate in any activities that require full alertness if you are unsure about your ability.

While taking Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine), try to stay out of the sun. Use sun block and wear protective clothing. Your eyes may become more sensitive to sunlight, too, so keep sunglasses handy.

Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) interferes with your ability to shed extra heat. Be cautious in hot weather.

People taking Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) for a prolonged period should see their doctor for regular evaluations, since side effects can get worse over time.

Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) may cause false-positive phenylketonuria (PKU) tests.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine)

If Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) with the following:

Antiseizure drugs such as Dilantin and Tegretol
Anticoagulants such as Coumadin
Guanethidine (Ismelin)
Lithium (Lithobid, Eskalith)
Narcotic painkillers such as Demerol and Tylenol with Codeine
Other central nervous system depressants such as Xanax, Valium, Seconal, Halcion
Propranolol (Inderal)
Thiazide diuretics such as Dyazide
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) is not usually recommended for pregnant women. However, your doctor may prescribe it for severe nausea and vomiting if the potential benefits of the drug outweigh the potential risks. Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) appears in breast milk and may affect a nursing infant. If Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) is essential to your health, your doctor may recommend that you stop breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.
Recommended dosage for Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine)

ADULTS
Overdosage

An overdose of Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) can be fatal. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical help immediately.

* Symptoms of Antinaus (Stemitil, Prochlorperazine, Compazine) overdose may include:
Agitation, coma, convulsions, dry mouth, extreme sleepiness, fever, intestinal blockage, irregular heart rate, restlessness