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Prochlorperazine: Uses and Side Effects You Should Know

Written by healthwords.ai's team of doctors and pharmacists based in UK | Updated: 12 Mar 2025 | 2 min read

Prochlorperazine is an anti-sickness medication used to prevent and treat severe nausea and vomiting. It is also used for some emotional and mental conditions and is available on a prescription from your doctor.

How does Prochlorperazine work?

It acts in the "chemoreceptor trigger zone" in the brain, to treat nausea and vomiting that may be experienced with migraine attacks. Buccastem M is available as a tablet that can be placed between the upper gums and inner cheek, rather than swallowed. This is so the medication can be released gradually over time and be absorbed directly into the blood through the blood vessels that line your gums and cheek. This means the medication gets to work quickly, as soon as 5 - 10 minutes, but it can take up to 30 minutes to feel the full effect.

How do I take Prochlorperazine?

Follow closely the directions provided by your doctor.

Who should not take the medication?

  • It is not to be used in children under the age of 18 years or anyone who has not seen a doctor about their migraines.
  • Do not be use in pregnancy or breastfeeding.
  • Do not take if you are allergic to prochlorperazine or any other ingredients.
  • You should talk to your doctor before taking it if you have any of the following conditions:

Are there any side effects?

Common side effects include feeling sleepy, blurred vision, dry mouth, blocked nose, and headache.

If you experience any symptoms of fever, confusion or muscle rigidity, or uncontrollable movements of the face and tongue, then you should seek urgent medical advice.

This article has been written by UK-based doctors and pharmacists, so some advice may not apply to US users and some suggested treatments may not be available. For more information, please see our T&Cs.