Overview of Prochlorperazine for Dogs and Cats

Prochlorperazine, Compazine®, Compro® or Prochlorperazine®, belongs to a class of drugs known as piperazine phenothiazine derivatives. Sometimes used for dogs and cats to reduce nausea and vomiting. Other related drugs in the class include acepromazine and chlorpromazine.

The exact mechanism of action of the phenothiazine derivatives is not completely understood. The drugs work by somehow blocking dopamine receptors in the nervous system and may even inhibit the release of dopamine.

These drugs are thought to affect the part of the brain responsible for controlling body temperature, metabolic rate, vomiting, blood pressure and alertness.

Compared to other phenothiazines, prochlorperazine has mild sedative effects and strong anti-vomiting effects.

Prochlorperazine is a prescription drug and can only be obtained from a veterinarian or by prescription from a veterinarian.

Brand Names and Other Names of Prochlorperazine

This drug is registered for use in humans only.

Human formulations: Compazine® (SKF), Compro®, Prochlorperazine® (Wyeth-Ayerst) and various generics.

Veterinary formulations: None

Uses of Prochlorperazine for Dogs and Cats

Prochlorperazine is used to reduce nausea and vomiting in cats and dogs. 

Precautions and Side Effects

While generally safe and effective when prescribed by a veterinarian, prochlorperazine can cause side effects in some animals.

Prochlorperazine should not be used in animals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to the drug.

Prochlorperazine should be avoided in animals with glaucoma, low blood pressure or shock.

This drug should be used with caution in animals with liver disease, heart disease or older patients.

Prochlorperazine may interact with other medications. Consult with your veterinarian to determine if other drugs your pet is receiving could interact with prochlorperazine. Such drugs include certain antidiarrheals, antacids, narcotics and metoclopramide.

Constipation, sedation and low blood pressure may occur after administration of prochlorperazine in some dogs and cats. 

In cases of overdose, prochlorperazine can cause tremors and drooling.

How Prochlorperazine is Supplied

Prochlorperazine is available in 5 mg/ml concentration injectable form in 2ml ampules and 10 ml vials. It is also available as 1 mg/ml syrup in 120 ml bottles.

Oral prochlorperazine is available in 5 mg, 10 mg and 25 mg tablets as well as 10 mg, 15 mg and 30 mg sustained release capsules.

Prochlorperazine suppositories are also available in 2.5 mg, 5 mg and 25 mg concentrations.

Dosing Information of Prochlorperazine for Dogs and Cats

Medication should never be administered without first consulting your veterinarian.

In dogs and cats, prochlorperazine is dosed at 0.05 to 0.25 mg per pound (0.1 to 0.5 mg/kg) intramuscular or subcutaneous every 6 to 8 hours. In dogs, it can be dosed at 0.5 mg per pound (1 mg/kg) orally every 12 hours.

The duration of administration depends on the condition being treated, response to the medication and the development of any adverse effects. Be certain to complete the prescription unless specifically directed by your veterinarian. Even if your pet feels better, the entire treatment plan should be completed to prevent relapse or prevent the development of resistance.