Procarbazine (Procarbazine)
Overview of Procarbazine
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.
Indication of Procarbazine
Procarbazine is primarily indicated in conditions like Brain tumors, Hodgkin's disease, Lung cancer, Malignant melanoma, Myeloma, Non-hodgkin's lymphoma, Polycythemia rubravera.
Contraindication of Procarbazine
Procarbazine is contraindicated in conditions like Bone marrow depression,Pregnancy,Severe liver impairment,Breast feeding,Adjunct in treatment of opioid dependance.
Side Effects of Procarbazine
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Procarbazine, which give rise to further complications include Azoospermia, Cessation of menstrual function, Teratogenic effect.,Procarbazine produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Bone marrow suppression, Thrombocytopenia, Carcinogenicity, Myelogenous leukemia. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Procarbazine therapy.,The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Procarbazine include Convulsions, Coma, Tremor.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Procarbazine are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Dizziness, Ataxia, Alopecia, Anorexia, Diarrhea, Fever, Myalgia, Insomnia, Nervousness, Chills, Stomatitis, Lethargy, Coma, Diplopia, Arthralgia, Nausea and vomiting, Thrombocytopenia, Influenza like syndrome, Convulsions, Photophobia, Nystagmus, Retinal hemorrhage, nervousness.
Precautions of Procarbazine
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.