Procarbazine

Dosage Forms Available

• Procarbazine is available for oral administration in the form of capsules.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• This medicine is meant for use in adults.

Contraindications

• Procarbazine is contraindicated in patients with severely low blood cell counts.
• It is contraindicated in individuals suffering from severe liver disease.
• Patients with a history of serious heart disease should not use this medicine.

Other Medications to Avoid

• This medicine can interact with antidepressants (such as SSRIs like fluoxetine and MAOIs like phenelzine), opioid pain medications (like morphine and codeine), antihistamines (such as diphenhydramine and loratadine), sedatives (like diazepam and alprazolam), blood thinners (such as warfarin), and blood pressure medications (like atenolol).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of Procarbazine may result in severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, seizures, and loss of consciousness. In case of a suspected overdose, immediate medical attention is necessary.
• If a dose of Procarbazine is missed, it should be skipped rather than taken later. The next dose should be taken at the regular scheduled time.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• To manage nausea, try taking the medicine with food.
• Ensure adequate fluid intake to help manage diarrhoea.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Procarbazine may cause dizziness or fatigue. You should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience these side effects.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Procarbazine is not recommended during pregnancy as it may cause birth defects. Women should avoid becoming pregnant while taking this medicine.
• It is advisable to consult a doctor before using Procarbazine during breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with existing liver conditions should use Procarbazine with caution.
• Individuals with pre-existing severe infections or those who are immunocompromised should also exercise caution when using this medicine.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Avoid alcohol while taking Procarbazine as it can cause a severe reaction.
• Foods high in tyramine such as aged cheeses, smoked or cured meats, and some fermented products should be avoided to prevent dangerous increases in blood pressure.
• Protect yourself from excessive sunlight by wearing protective clothing and using sunscreen, as Procarbazine can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
• Ensure good oral hygiene to prevent mouth sores.