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Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Procarbazine is employed in the treatment of Hodgkin’s disease, also referred to as Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It falls under the category of drugs known as alkylating agents. Its mechanism of action involves slowing down or halting the growth of cancer cells.
Uses and Dosage
Take this medication according to your doctor’s directions, usually once or twice daily. It is typically administered in a 2-week cycle, followed by a pause before repeating. Refrain from chewing or crushing the capsules; swallow them whole. To minimize the risk of side effects, your doctor may initiate the medication at a low dose and gradually increase it. Adhere to your doctor’s instructions diligently.
The dosage is determined by your medical condition, response to treatment, age, body size, and other medications you may be taking. Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all products you use, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal products.
Consistently use this medication to derive the maximum benefit. Take it at the same time(s) each day to help establish a routine.
To prevent a potentially severe high blood pressure reaction, follow a special diet recommended by your doctor or dietician, limiting your intake of tyramine while on this medicine. Avoid tyramine-rich foods and beverages, including aged cheeses, dried/aged meats, sausages, preserved fish, products with large yeast amounts, fermented foods, most soybean products, broad/fava beans, red wine, sherry, tap beers, and vermouth. Consult your doctor or dietician for a comprehensive list of tyramine-containing foods to limit or avoid.
Do not discontinue this medication, even in the presence of nausea. If vomiting occurs shortly after taking a dose, contact your doctor promptly for guidance.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- drowsiness
- muscle or joint pain
- muscle twitching
- nausea and vomiting
- nervousness
- nightmares
- trouble in sleeping
- unusual tiredness or weakness
- constipation
- darkening of skin
- difficulty in swallowing
- dizziness or lightheadedness when getting up from a lying or sitting position
- dry mouth
- feeling of warmth and redness in face
- headache
- loss of appetite
- mental depression
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- black, tarry stools
- blood in urine or stools
- bloody vomit
- cough or hoarseness
- fever or chills
- lower back or side pain
- painful or difficult urination
- pinpoint red spots on skin
- unusual bleeding or bruising
- confusion
- convulsions (seizures)
- cough
- hallucinations (seeing, hearing, or feeling things that are not there)
- missing menstrual periods
- shortness of breath
- thickening of bronchial secretions
- tiredness or weakness (continuing)
Caution
- Before taking procarbazine, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have, as this product may contain inactive ingredients that could cause allergic reactions.
- Share your medical history with your doctor or pharmacist, particularly if you have a history of bleeding or blood problems, current or recent infections, kidney disease, liver disease, or have undergone radiation treatment.
- Procarbazine may induce dizziness or drowsiness. Consuming alcohol or marijuana can intensify these effects. Avoid activities requiring alertness until you can do them safely.
- Smoking should be avoided while using this medication, as it increases the risk of developing lung cancer. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
- Procarbazine may heighten sensitivity to the sun. Limit sun exposure, avoid tanning booths and sunlamps, and use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors. Notify your doctor if you experience sunburn or skin blisters/redness.
- The medication may increase susceptibility to infections or worsen existing infections. Steer clear of individuals with contagious infections, and consult your doctor if you have been exposed to an infection.
- Inform your healthcare professional about procarbazine use before undergoing immunizations/vaccinations. Avoid contact with individuals who have recently received live vaccines.
- Exercise caution with sharp objects and activities that may cause cuts or injuries to lower the risk of harm. Children may be more sensitive to side effects, such as tremors, loss of consciousness, or seizures.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Avoid pregnancy during procarbazine use and inquire about reliable forms of birth control. If pregnancy occurs, consult your doctor promptly to discuss the risks and benefits of the medication.
- The passage of this drug into breast milk is unknown. Breastfeeding is not recommended during procarbazine use due to potential risks to the infant.
Form and Strength
Matulane is available in the following forms and strengths:
- procarbazine capsule:
- 50 mg
FAQ
How long do I need to take Matulane for?
Matulane is usually taken for certain days during each chemotherapy cycle, so it’s important to follow the directions your provider gives you. The amount of time you need to take Matulane depends on things like how well the medication is working to treat your cancer, what chemotherapy treatment regimen you’re taking, and how well you tolerate the side effects.
Is Matulane safe if I have liver or kidney problems?
If you have liver or kidney problems, you’re at higher risk for side effects because your body might have a more difficult time breaking down Matulane. Let your provider know if you have problems with your liver or kidney, as you’ll need to be monitored more closely.
Resources
- https://www.goodrx.com/matulane/what-is#faqs
- https://www.medbroadcast.com/drug/getdrug/matulane#google_vignette
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/procarbazine-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20067874
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-6892/matulane-oral/details
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/matulane.html
