DrugInfoSys

Procarbazine

Also known as: Ibenzmethyzim

Drug #615

Procarbazine is oral, cell cycle-phase specific antineoplastic (antineoplastic) agent used in the treatment of Hodgkin's disease, non-Hodgkin's lymphomas, brain tumors, and lung cancers. It has been described as a nonclassic alkylating agent and is not cross-resistant with the other alkylating agents. Today, Procarbazine is used almost exclusively for Hodgkin's disease. It originally was synthesized as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor, and this activity, as well as a disulfiram-like reaction, are part of its unusual adverse effect profile. It was approved by the FDA in 1969. it must be activated by the cytochrome P-450 system to exert its cytotoxic effects. Several active metabolites can form. it's exact mechanism(s) of action is not clear, but the drug appears to have several sites of action in the cell. The drug appears to be most active during S and G1 phase. The cytotoxic effects of it are evident only in cells that are rapidly proliferating and actively synthesizing DNA.

Primary Characteristics

Procarbazine is also known as Ibenzmethyzim.

It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Amide.

It belongs to DNA Strand Breakage pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Antineoplastic Agent, Alkylating Agent pharmacological group.

Molecular Weight: 257.8 · pKa: 6.8 · Solubility in Water: >1 in 10 · Solubility in Alcohol: > 1 in 100 · Non-proprietary name: Procarbazine.

Molecular structure of Procarbazine

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Procarbazine has an oral bioavailability is 95.5% (±4.5%).

Elimination: it is metabolised via Hepatic, plasma half-life is 7 min, renal excretion is 75 %.

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Indications

Contraindications

Dosage

Procarbazine's dosage details are as follows:

DoseSingle DoseFrequencyRouteInstructions
Adult Dosage
150 mg/ sq.meter150 mg/ sq.meterEvery 24hPOIn div.doses.For 14 days in each treatment cycle
Paediatric Dosage (20kg)
125 mg/sq.meter125 mg/sq.meterEvery 24hOralFor 14 days
Neonatal Dosage (3kg)
0 – 0Not used in this age group

Drug Interactions

Unknown3 interactions
2 interactions
Major8 interactions
Moderate2 interactions

Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Side Effects

Procarbazine in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Cessation of menstrual function, Azoospermia , Teratogenic effect .

Procarbazine produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Bone marrow suppression, Thrombocytopenia , Carcinogenicity, Myelogenous leukemia. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.

The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Procarbazine are Tremor, Coma, Convulsions .

Procarbazine is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Alopecia, Anorexia , Arthralgia, Ataxia, Chills, Coma , Convulsions , Diarrhea, Diplopia, Dizziness, Fever, Influenza like syndrome , Insomnia, Lethargy, Myalgia, Nausea and vomiting, nervousness, Nystagmus , Photophobia , Retinal hemorrhage, Stomatitis, Thrombocytopenia.

Warnings / Precautions

Procarbazine should be used with caution in patients with angina (chest pain), heart or blood vessel problems, recent case of chickenpox, diabetes, seizures, kidney or liver disease, severe or frequent headaches, infection, mental or emotional conditions, thyroid problems, Parkinson`s disease, history of alcohol use, radiation therapy, blood diseases and any allergy, especially drug allergies. Before having surgery of any kind or emergency treatment, inform the doctor or dentist about the use of the drug. Caution is advised when performing tasks requiring alertness (e.g., driving). Get up slowly, to avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position. Since this drug may cause sun sensitivity, so use sunscreens. It should be used with caution while using sharp objects like safety razors or nail cutters and avoid activities such as contact sports in order to lower the chance of getting cut, bruised or injured. Avoid touching eyes or inside nose without first washing hands. Do not have immunizations or vaccinations without consent of doctor and avoid contact with people who have recently received oral polio vaccine. Effective birth control measures are recommended for use in men and women while taking this. It is not recommended for use during pregnancy or lactation. All precautions related to food, drinks and other drugs apply for at least 2 weeks after treatment with this drug is stopped.

Interference in Pathology

Procarbazine may interfere in the diagnosis of Urinanalysis , Hematocrit Value , Complete blood cell count.

Available Brands

Click on a strength to view available brands.

Single Ingredient

Caps

Storage Conditions

Procarbazine should be stored Caps.

Drug Classification

  1. 1.8.2Cytotoxic (anti-neoplastic) drugs

Manufacturers

Manufacturers of Procarbazine in Pakistan: