Is prochlorperazine (Prochlorperazine) available via intramuscular (IM) injection in Canada?

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Last updated: March 26, 2025View editorial policy

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From the Guidelines

Yes, prochlorperazine is available in injectable intramuscular (IM) form in Canada, as evidenced by its use in various clinical settings, including the management of nausea and vomiting, as mentioned in the provided evidence 1.

Key Points

  • The medication is marketed under the brand name Stemetil and is also available as a generic medication.
  • The IM formulation typically comes as a 5 mg/mL solution for injection.
  • Prochlorperazine IM is primarily used for the management of severe nausea and vomiting, and for the control of symptoms in acute psychotic conditions.
  • The typical adult IM dose ranges from 5 to 10 mg, which may be repeated every 3 to 4 hours as needed, with a maximum daily dose of 40 mg.
  • Healthcare providers should be aware that prochlorperazine can cause extrapyramidal side effects, particularly with parenteral administration, so patients should be monitored accordingly.
  • The medication works by blocking dopamine receptors in the chemoreceptor trigger zone of the brain, which helps control nausea and vomiting, while its antipsychotic effects are due to dopamine receptor blockade in the mesolimbic system.

Clinical Use

  • Prochlorperazine is used in the management of severe nausea and vomiting, as well as in the control of symptoms in acute psychotic conditions.
  • It is also used as an adjunctive therapy for the treatment of migraines, as mentioned in the provided evidence 1.
  • The medication is administered via intramuscular injection, typically in a dose of 5-10 mg, which may be repeated every 3-4 hours as needed.

Important Considerations

  • Healthcare providers should be aware of the potential for extrapyramidal side effects, particularly with parenteral administration, and monitor patients accordingly.
  • The medication should be used with caution in patients with a history of CNS depression, and in those taking adrenergic blockers.
  • Prochlorperazine can cause hypotension, tachycardia, and arrhythmias, and should be used with caution in patients with cardiovascular disease.

From the FDA Drug Label

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION NOTE ON INJECTION: For intramuscular administration, inject deeply into the upper, outer quadrant of the buttock. Prochlorperazine Edisylate Injection, an antiemetic and antipsychotic, is a sterile solution intended for intramuscular or intravenous administration.

The information provided does not specify that prochlorperazine is available via intramuscular (IM) injection in Canada. The drug labels provided do mention intramuscular administration, but they do not mention the country of availability. Therefore, no conclusion can be drawn about the availability of prochlorperazine via IM injection in Canada based on the provided information.

From the Research

Availability of Prochlorperazine via Intramuscular (IM) Injection in Canada

  • There is no direct evidence in the provided studies regarding the availability of prochlorperazine via intramuscular (IM) injection in Canada 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • The studies primarily focus on the comparison of prochlorperazine with other antiemetic agents, its efficacy, and administration routes such as intravenous and buccal, but do not specifically address the availability of IM injection in Canada.
  • None of the studies provide information on the regulatory approval or availability of prochlorperazine IM injection in the Canadian market 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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