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Phenothiazine (Antiemetic / Antivertigo)

Prochlorperazine

Brand names: Stemetil, Buccastem (buccal)

Prochlorperazine is a phenothiazine used for nausea and vomiting and for vertigo, including in labyrinthine disorders such as Meniere's disease.

Dosing — being independently re-sourced

ClinCalc Pro is rebuilding its dose data from primary open sources — the manufacturer SmPC (eMC), the WHO Model Formulary and other official references — under clinician review. This drug's structured dose is not yet published here. Confirm all doses against the product SmPC and your local formulary before prescribing.

US labelling (FDA)

Reference — US labelling, may differ from UK

(For children’s dosage and administration, see below.) Dosage should be increased more gradually in debilitated or emaciated patients. Elderly Patients: In general, dosages in the lower range are sufficient for most elderly patients. Since they appear to be more susceptible to hypotension and neuromuscular reac­tions, such patients should be observed closely. Dosage should be tailored to the individual, response carefully moni­tored and dosage adjusted accordingly. Dosage should be increased more gradually in elderly patients. 1.To Control Severe Nausea and Vomiting: Adjust dosage to the response of the individual. Begin with the lowest recommended dosage. Oral Dosage-Tablets: Usually one …

Source: US FDA prescribing information (openFDA / DailyMed), label dated 2025-01-22. Accessed 2026-06-12. US dosing and indications can differ from UK practice — use UK sources for prescribing decisions.

Clinical monograph

How it works

It blocks dopamine D2 receptors (centrally, including the chemoreceptor trigger zone), reducing nausea and vertigo.

Prescribing in practice

  • Extrapyramidal effects, especially acute dystonia in younger people, can occur — use with care and for the shortest time.
  • Avoid using it to mask the cause of undiagnosed vomiting, particularly in children and young adults.
  • It can prolong the QT interval and cause sedation and postural hypotension.

Monitoring

Review for movement disorders and the ongoing need.

Counselling the patient

  • Report muscle spasms (especially of the face or neck), restlessness or abnormal movements.
  • It can cause drowsiness.

Evidence & guidelines

Used for nausea, vomiting and vertigo, with caution about extrapyramidal effects.

Reference: Drug verified in RxNorm (NLM); confirm dosing against the manufacturer SPC (eMC). Verify against your local formulary and current prescribing references before prescribing. Monograph status: clinician-reviewed (2026-07-04).

Related

Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.

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