Often used for:
Hodgkin lymphoma, glioma
What is procarbazine?
Procarbazine is an oral chemotherapy agent that slows or stops cancer cell growth. It is usually combined with other medicines, and patients require frequent lab monitoring.
Procarbazine at home
- Take at the same time each day with or without food; bedtime on an empty stomach may help nausea.
- Swallow capsules whole and wear gloves when handling.
- Shake liquid formulations well and protect from light.
- Give missed doses as soon as possible unless near the next dose. Do not double.
- Store at room temperature and dispose of supplies safely.
Possible side effects
- Nausea and vomiting
- Low blood counts (infection, bleeding, anemia, fatigue risk)
- Loss of appetite or weight loss
- Fatigue or weakness
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
- Sleep problems
- Bone, joint, or muscle pain
- Dry mouth
- Hair loss or skin changes
- Flushing or flu-like symptoms
- Cough
- Increased urination
- Liver, kidney, or lung problems
- Fertility problems
- Allergic reactions
- Not all patients experience these effects. Report symptoms.
Tips for families
- Discuss all instructions with the care team.
- Avoid tyramine-rich foods and alcoholic beverages.
- Consult the doctor before taking over-the-counter medicines, especially cold remedies.
- Use prescribed anti-nausea medicines as directed.
- Practice safe handling; avoid contact with body fluids for 48 hours after dosing.
- Use birth control during treatment and for a period after therapy.
- Inform the care team if pregnant or breastfeeding.
