Indications
Matulane (generically known as procarbazine hydrochloride) is a prescription medication used in combination with other anticancer drugs for the treatment of Stage III and IV Hodgkin's disease. It is a hydrazine derivative antineoplastic agent that works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells.
Matulane is available in capsule form containing the equivalent of 50 mg procarbazine hydrochloride. Other uses for Matulane include non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, brain tumors, melanoma, lung cancer, and multiple myeloma. As with any prescription medication, it should only be taken under the guidance and supervision of a healthcare professional.
Use and Dosage
Procarbazine is a medication that comes in the form of capsules. It should be taken as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily, for a 2-week period, then stopped for a time and repeated as a treatment cycle. Do not chew or crush the capsules before swallowing. To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start Procarbazine at a low dose and gradually increase your dose.
To prevent a potentially dangerous high blood pressure reaction, you should follow a special diet recommended by your doctor or dietician to limit your intake of tyramine while you are taking Procarbazine. Avoid foods and beverages that are high in tyramine, including aged cheeses, dried/aged meats, and sausages. Consult your doctor or dietician for more details and a complete list of other foods that contain tyramine which you should limit or avoid.
Follow your doctor's instructions carefully and take Procarbazine regularly to get the most benefit from it. Take it at the same time(s) each day to help you remember. Do not stop taking Procarbazine, even if you experience nausea. If you vomit soon after taking a dose, contact your doctor right away for instructions.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Matulane (Procarbazine):
- Bone, joint, or muscle pain
- Changes in skin color
- Constipation
- Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
- Dryness of mouth
- Hair loss
- Headache
- Increased urination
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Vomiting
Serious Side Effects of Matulane (Procarbazine):
- Black, tarry stools
- Confusion
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Dizziness
- Fainting
- Fast or irregular heartbeat
- Fever, sore throat, chills, or other signs of infection
- Hallucinating (seeing things or hearing voices that do not exist)
- Hives
- Itching
- Pain, burning, numbness, pricking, or tingling in the hands or feet or on the skin
- Rash
- Red urine
- Seizures
- Severe or ongoing diarrhea
- Sores in the mouth and throat
- Uncontrollable shaking of a part of your body
- Unusual bruising or bleeding
- Vision changes
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
Forms and Strength
Matulane (Procarbazine) is available in the following forms and strength:
Procarbazine: Capsule
- 50 mg
Cautions
- Matulane may interact with other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, which could increase the risk of side effects or affect how Matulane works.
- Matulane can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision, which could affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. You should avoid these activities until you know how Matulane affects you.
- Matulane may cause nausea and vomiting, which could lead to possible dehydration. It is recommended to drink plenty of fluids while taking Matulane to prevent dehydration.
- Matulane can cause bone marrow suppression, which can increase the risk of infections or bleeding. Regular blood tests may be necessary to monitor your blood cell counts while taking Matulane.
- Matulane may increase the risk of developing secondary malignancies, such as leukemia or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
- Matulane is not recommended for use during pregnancy, as it can harm the developing fetus. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should discuss the risks and benefits of Matulane with their healthcare professional.
- Matulane should not be taken with alcohol, as it may cause a disulfiram-like reaction, which can include severe flushing, headache, nausea, and vomiting.
- Matulane can cause serotonin syndrome when taken with other medications that increase serotonin levels in the brain. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome can include agitation, confusion, rapid heartbeat, high blood pressure, and fever.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do if I miss a dose of Matulane?
If you miss a dose of Matulane, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Can Matulane cause fertility problems or birth defects?
Matulane may cause temporary or permanent infertility in both men and women. It may also cause harm to a developing fetus if taken during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of Matulane if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Matulane?
Do not drink alcohol while taking Matulane, as it may increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness and nausea. Talk to your doctor about any alcohol consumption during chemotherapy treatment.
How long does it take for Matulane to start working?
The time it takes for Matulane to start working may vary depending on the type and stage of cancer being treated. It may take several weeks or months of treatment before the full effects of Matulane are seen. Regular follow-up appointments with your doctor and blood tests may be necessary to monitor the progress of treatment.
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