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Matulane (procarbazine) is a prescription chemotherapy medication used to treat certain types of cancer, particularly advanced Hodgkin lymphoma.

It belongs to a class of anticancer medications called alkylating agents, which work by damaging the genetic material (DNA) of cancer cells. This interferes with their ability to grow, multiply, and spread.

Matulane is usually given in combination with other chemotherapy medications rather than used alone.

It comes in oral capsule form and should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare provider experienced in cancer treatment.

Matulane is approved for treating Stage III and Stage IV Hodgkin lymphoma in combination with other anticancer medications. It may also be used for certain other cancers when an oncology specialist determines that treatment is appropriate. 

Treatment of Hodgkin Lymphoma

Matulane is primarily used to treat Hodgkin lymphoma, a type of cancer that develops in the lymphatic system.

The lymphatic system is part of the body’s immune system. It contains lymph nodes, lymph vessels, and organs that help protect the body against infections.

Hodgkin lymphoma develops when certain white blood cells, called lymphocytes, become abnormal and begin multiplying uncontrollably.

A characteristic feature of classical Hodgkin lymphoma is the presence of abnormal cells called Reed-Sternberg cells.

These cancer cells can accumulate in lymph nodes and may spread to other parts of the body.

Common symptoms of Hodgkin lymphoma include enlarged lymph nodes, unexplained fever, night sweats, persistent fatigue, itching, and unintentional weight loss.

Matulane may be prescribed as part of combination chemotherapy to help destroy cancer cells and control the disease.

Stage III Hodgkin Lymphoma

Stage III Hodgkin lymphoma means the cancer has spread to lymph node regions on both sides of the diaphragm.

The diaphragm is the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen and helps with breathing.

In some cases, the spleen or nearby tissues may also be affected.

Matulane may be used with other chemotherapy medications to target cancer cells throughout the body.

Combination chemotherapy allows medications with different mechanisms of action to work together.

The goal of treatment may be to eliminate detectable cancer, achieve remission, and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

Stage IV Hodgkin Lymphoma

Stage IV Hodgkin lymphoma is an advanced stage in which cancer has spread to organs outside the lymphatic system, such as the liver, lungs, or bone marrow.

At this stage, cancer cells may be present in several parts of the body.

Because chemotherapy travels through the bloodstream, it can reach cancer cells in different tissues and organs.

Matulane helps damage the DNA of these cells, making it more difficult for them to survive and multiply.

It is used with other anticancer medications as part of a treatment regimen selected by an oncology specialist.

Even advanced Hodgkin lymphoma can respond well to treatment in many patients. However, the outcome depends on the type of lymphoma, the patient’s overall health, and the response to chemotherapy.

Use in Combination Chemotherapy

Matulane is generally used with other anticancer medications rather than as a single treatment.

One established chemotherapy regimen containing procarbazine is called MOPP.

MOPP includes mechlorethamine, vincristine (Oncovin), procarbazine, and prednisone.

These medications work in different ways to damage cancer cells or interfere with their growth.

Procarbazine contributes to the treatment by damaging cancer-cell DNA, while the other medications target cancer cells through complementary mechanisms.

MOPP is an older treatment regimen. Modern Hodgkin lymphoma treatment frequently uses other chemotherapy combinations, depending on the stage of cancer and the patient’s individual needs.

Your oncology team will determine whether a procarbazine-containing regimen is appropriate.

Can Matulane Treat Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma?

Matulane has also been studied and used in selected cases of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma refers to a large group of cancers affecting lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell involved in immune protection.

These cancers can develop in lymph nodes, bone marrow, the spleen, and other tissues.

Some forms grow slowly, while others develop and spread more rapidly.

Symptoms may include swollen lymph nodes, fever, night sweats, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.

Procarbazine has been included in certain chemotherapy treatments for lymphomas and other cancers.

However, non-Hodgkin lymphoma is not an approved indication for Matulane under its current U.S. or Canadian product labeling.

Its use for selected non-Hodgkin lymphomas would therefore be considered off-label.

Off-label treatment means a medication is prescribed for a condition that is not specifically included in its approved product indications.

An oncology specialist may consider this approach when supported by clinical evidence and an individual’s treatment needs.

Matulane is not appropriate for every type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. 

How Does Matulane Work?

Matulane belongs to a group of chemotherapy medications called alkylating agents.

These medications interfere with the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from growing and dividing normally.

DNA contains the genetic instructions that cells use to function, repair themselves, and produce new cells.

Cancer develops when abnormal cells multiply without normal control.

Procarbazine interferes with this process through its active breakdown products.

Damages Cancer-Cell DNA

After procarbazine enters the body, it is converted into active substances.

These substances can damage DNA and interfere with normal genetic processes.

When cancer-cell DNA becomes damaged, the cells may lose their ability to divide successfully.

Severe damage may cause the cells to die.

This helps reduce the number of cancer cells in the body.

Interferes With Cancer-Cell Growth

Cancer cells often grow and divide more rapidly than many healthy cells.

Chemotherapy medications such as procarbazine take advantage of this difference by disrupting processes necessary for cell multiplication.

By damaging DNA, Matulane can prevent susceptible cancer cells from continuing to reproduce.

This may help slow cancer progression and reduce tumour burden.

However, chemotherapy may also affect healthy cells that divide rapidly.

These include blood-forming cells in the bone marrow and cells lining the digestive tract.

This is why Matulane can cause side effects such as nausea, reduced blood cell counts, and an increased risk of infection.

Works With Other Chemotherapy Medications

Matulane is usually combined with other anticancer medications because cancer treatment often requires several approaches.

Different chemotherapy drugs act on different processes involved in cancer-cell survival.

Using several medications together may improve the ability to destroy cancer cells.

However, combination treatment can also increase the risk of adverse effects.

Your oncology team will select the appropriate regimen, monitor your response, and adjust treatment when necessary.

How Long Does Matulane Take to Work?

Matulane begins affecting susceptible cancer cells during treatment, but noticeable changes may not occur immediately.

The response depends on the type and stage of cancer, the chemotherapy regimen, and individual factors.

Chemotherapy is often administered in treatment cycles, with periods of medication use followed by recovery periods.

Your oncology team may use physical examinations, blood tests, and imaging scans to evaluate your response.

For example, imaging tests may show whether enlarged lymph nodes or other affected areas have decreased in size.

Do not change your Matulane dosage or treatment schedule based on how you feel. The medication may be working even when there are no noticeable changes in symptoms.

Important Information About Matulane

Matulane is a potent chemotherapy medication that requires close medical supervision.

It may reduce the number of healthy blood cells produced by the bone marrow, increasing the risk of infection, anemia, and bleeding.

Your oncology team will monitor your blood counts and may also perform kidney and liver function tests during treatment.

Matulane can interact with alcohol, certain medications, and foods containing high amounts of tyramine, such as some aged cheeses and cured meats.

It can also cause serious harm to a developing baby. Patients should discuss pregnancy prevention and fertility considerations with their oncology team before treatment.

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you develop fever, chills, unusual bleeding, severe weakness, or other concerning symptoms.

Matulane is a prescription chemotherapy medication used in combination with other anticancer medications to treat certain types of cancer, particularly advanced Hodgkin lymphoma.

It works by interfering with the DNA of cancer cells, making it more difficult for them to grow and multiply.

Matulane comes in capsule form and is taken by mouth according to a treatment schedule prescribed by your oncology team.

The dosage and duration of treatment depend on your cancer diagnosis, the chemotherapy regimen being used, your body weight or body surface area, and your response to treatment.

Take Matulane exactly as prescribed by your oncology specialist. Do not change your dosage, skip scheduled doses, or stop treatment without medical advice.

How to Take Matulane Correctly

Follow these instructions when taking Matulane:

  1. Follow Your Prescribed Schedule: Take the medication on the days and at the times specified by your oncology team.
  2. Swallow the Capsules Whole: Take the capsules with water. Do not crush, chew, break, or open them.
  3. Take the Correct Dose: Your healthcare provider will determine how many capsules you need for each scheduled dose.
  4. Maintain a Consistent Routine: When taking Matulane on consecutive days, try to take each dose at approximately the same time.
  5. Follow Dietary Restrictions: Avoid foods and beverages high in tyramine, as recommended by your healthcare provider.
  6. Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol may cause unpleasant reactions and increase the risk of side effects during treatment.
  7. Follow Safe Handling Instructions: Matulane is a hazardous chemotherapy medication. Wash your hands after handling the capsules, and keep them away from children and pets.
  8. Attend Follow-Up Appointments: Regular blood tests and medical examinations are important for monitoring treatment safety.

If you have difficulty swallowing capsules, contact your oncology team or pharmacist. Do not open or crush the capsules yourself.

Recommended Dosage of Matulane

The appropriate dosage of Matulane depends on the chemotherapy regimen selected by your oncology specialist.

In some treatment plans, procarbazine is taken once daily for a specific number of days, followed by a break before the next treatment cycle.

Other regimens may use divided daily doses or a different schedule.

A treatment cycle is a planned period of chemotherapy followed by a recovery period.

The recovery period allows healthy cells, particularly blood-forming cells in the bone marrow, time to recover from treatment.

For example, some procarbazine-containing regimens involve taking the medication for approximately 14 consecutive days before a scheduled treatment break.

However, not every Matulane treatment cycle lasts 14 days, and the schedule should not be assumed without checking your prescription.

Your oncology team will provide specific instructions about when to start, how many capsules to take, and when to stop before the next cycle.

Why Might My Healthcare Provider Start With a Low Dose?

Your oncology specialist may begin Matulane treatment with a lower dose and gradually increase it in certain regimens.

This approach may help assess how well you tolerate the medication.

Matulane can cause significant side effects, including nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and reduced blood cell counts.

Your healthcare provider may monitor your symptoms and blood test results before making dosage adjustments.

In some cases, treatment may need to be delayed, reduced, or temporarily interrupted because of side effects.

Do not increase your dose on your own, even if you feel well or think the medication is not working quickly enough.

Chemotherapy dosing must be carefully controlled to balance treatment effectiveness with the risk of serious complications.

Why Should I Avoid Foods High in Tyramine?

Matulane has monoamine oxidase-inhibiting activity, which means it can interfere with the breakdown of certain naturally occurring substances, including tyramine.

Tyramine is a compound found in some foods, particularly those that are aged, fermented, cured, or improperly stored.

Normally, the body breaks down tyramine before it can significantly affect blood pressure.

However, procarbazine may reduce the body’s ability to process tyramine.

When too much tyramine accumulates, it can trigger a sudden and potentially dangerous increase in blood pressure.

This reaction is sometimes called a hypertensive crisis.

Possible symptoms include a severe headache, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, sweating, nausea, or sudden changes in vision.

Follow the dietary restrictions provided by your oncology team or dietitian throughout treatment.

Foods and Beverages to Avoid While Taking Matulane

Certain foods contain higher amounts of tyramine and may need to be avoided during treatment.

Common examples include:

  • Aged cheeses: Such as aged cheddar, blue cheese, and certain other matured cheeses.
  • Cured or fermented meats: Such as salami, pepperoni, and some aged sausages.
  • Fermented soy products: Such as certain types of miso, tempeh, and traditionally fermented soy sauces.
  • Certain fermented foods: Particularly products that have undergone prolonged fermentation or aging.
  • Some alcoholic beverages: Especially certain beers and wines. Alcohol should generally be avoided during Matulane treatment.
  • Spoiled or improperly stored foods: Tyramine levels may rise as protein-rich foods age or deteriorate.

The amount of tyramine varies depending on the food, preparation method, storage conditions, and degree of fermentation.

Your oncology team or dietitian can provide a more complete list of foods to avoid and suitable alternatives.

Do not make major dietary changes without discussing them with your healthcare provider, especially if cancer treatment has already affected your appetite or nutritional intake.

Can I Take Matulane With or Without Food?

Matulane can be taken with or without food.

If you experience nausea or mild stomach discomfort, taking your capsules with a small meal or snack may help.

Swallow the capsules whole with a glass of water.

Do not crush, chew, or open the capsules because Matulane is a hazardous chemotherapy medication.

Your oncology team may prescribe anti-nausea medication to help prevent or manage treatment-related nausea and vomiting.

Take these medications exactly as directed.

If you experience persistent nausea or vomiting, contact your oncology team rather than stopping chemotherapy on your own. 

What Should I Do If I Vomit After Taking Matulane?

Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of procarbazine.

Some patients may experience these symptoms shortly after taking their capsules.

If you vomit after taking Matulane, do not automatically take another dose.

Even if you vomit shortly after swallowing the capsule, some medication may already have been absorbed.

Taking an additional dose could result in excessive medication exposure and increase the risk of serious side effects.

Contact your oncology team for instructions, particularly if vomiting occurs soon after taking a dose.

Your healthcare provider will determine whether any adjustment is necessary.

If vomiting is severe or persistent, your oncology team may recommend anti-nausea medication or changes to your supportive treatment.

Do not stop your chemotherapy independently because of nausea. However, if vomiting prevents you from keeping medication or fluids down, seek prompt medical advice before taking further doses.

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Matulane?

If you forget to take Matulane, contact your oncology team for instructions.

Unlike many everyday medications, chemotherapy follows carefully planned dosing schedules.

The safest way to manage a missed dose may depend on your treatment regimen and how much time has passed.

Do not take two doses at once or add an extra dose to make up for a missed capsule.

Taking more procarbazine than prescribed can increase the risk of serious side effects, including bone marrow suppression.

Bone marrow suppression occurs when chemotherapy reduces the production of healthy blood cells.

This may increase the risk of infections, anemia, and bleeding.

Your oncology team will explain whether you should skip the missed dose or adjust your treatment schedule. 

Why Should I Avoid Alcohol While Taking Matulane?

Alcohol should be avoided during Matulane treatment.

Procarbazine can cause a reaction similar to the one associated with disulfiram, a medication used to discourage alcohol consumption.

This reaction may cause flushing, severe nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, headache, dizziness, and a rapid heartbeat.

Drinking alcohol may also worsen chemotherapy-related nausea and other side effects.

Avoid alcoholic beverages, including beer, wine, and spirits.

Some products containing alcohol or propylene glycol may also need to be avoided.

Your oncology team may recommend continuing alcohol restrictions for approximately two weeks after your last dose.

Do not drink alcohol while taking Matulane, and ask your oncology team when it is safe to resume alcohol consumption after treatment. 

Why Is It Important to Take Matulane Regularly?

Matulane is prescribed as part of a carefully planned chemotherapy regimen.

The timing and number of doses are selected to help treat cancer while allowing time for healthy tissues to recover.

Skipping doses or changing the schedule may affect treatment.

Taking extra doses can increase the risk of serious toxicity.

During scheduled treatment days, try to take Matulane at approximately the same time unless your oncology team provides different instructions.

Keep a written medication schedule or treatment calendar to help track your doses and planned treatment breaks.

Attend all scheduled appointments for blood tests and other monitoring.

Do not continue taking Matulane during a scheduled treatment break or restart it earlier than instructed.

When Should I Contact My Oncology Team?

Contact your oncology team if you experience persistent nausea, vomiting, difficulty swallowing capsules, or uncertainty about a missed dose.

You should also report unusual bruising, bleeding, mouth sores, significant weakness, or other concerning symptoms.

Matulane can reduce healthy blood cell counts, making infections potentially serious.

A fever of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher during chemotherapy requires urgent medical assessment, unless your oncology team has given you a different emergency threshold.

Seek emergency medical attention if you experience chest pain, a sudden severe headache, difficulty breathing, confusion, or symptoms suggesting a dangerous increase in blood pressure.

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

Matulane (Procarbazine) is available in the following forms and strength:

Procarbazine: Capsule

  • 50 mg

Matulane is a prescription chemotherapy medication used in combination with other anticancer medicines to treat advanced Hodgkin lymphoma.

It works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, making it more difficult for them to grow and multiply.

Although Matulane can be an important part of cancer treatment, it may cause serious side effects and requires close medical supervision.

Before starting treatment, tell your oncology team about all medications, supplements, allergies, and existing medical conditions. Regular blood tests and follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor treatment safety.

Medication Interactions

Matulane can interact with prescription medications, over-the-counter products, and herbal supplements.

Procarbazine has monoamine oxidase-inhibiting (MAOI) activity. This means it can interfere with the breakdown of certain natural substances and medications in the body.

Some interactions may cause serious changes in blood pressure, excessive sedation, or other potentially dangerous reactions.

Particular caution is necessary with certain antidepressants, opioid pain medications, cough and cold remedies, stimulants, and medicines that affect serotonin levels.

For example, medications containing dextromethorphan, which is found in some cough suppressants, may interact with MAOI-active drugs.

Other medications, such as tramadol and certain antidepressants, may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.

Do not start any new medication, including over-the-counter cold remedies or herbal supplements, without checking with your oncology team or pharmacist.

Your healthcare provider should review your complete medication list before and during treatment.

Drowsiness, Dizziness, and Blurred Vision

Matulane may cause drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, or blurred vision.

These effects may make it difficult to concentrate, maintain balance, or react quickly.

Some patients may also experience fatigue because of chemotherapy or changes in their blood cell counts.

These symptoms can interfere with activities that require full attention and coordination.

Avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or performing potentially dangerous activities until you know how Matulane affects you.

If you feel dizzy, stand up slowly after sitting or lying down.

Ask for assistance with activities that may increase your risk of falling.

Contact your oncology team if dizziness, blurred vision, or excessive sleepiness persists or becomes worse.

Sudden or severe vision changes should be evaluated promptly.

Nausea, Vomiting, and Dehydration

Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of Matulane.

Chemotherapy can affect the digestive system and stimulate areas of the brain involved in nausea and vomiting.

Some patients may experience these symptoms shortly after taking the medication, while others may develop them later during treatment.

Frequent vomiting can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances.

Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluid than it replaces.

Possible symptoms include excessive thirst, dry mouth, dizziness, dark urine, weakness, and reduced urination.

Your oncology team may prescribe anti-nausea medication to help prevent or control these symptoms.

Drink fluids regularly according to your healthcare provider’s recommendations. Small, frequent sips may be easier to tolerate when you feel nauseated.

However, patients with kidney problems, heart conditions, or fluid restrictions should follow their individualized fluid intake instructions.

If you vomit after taking Matulane, do not automatically take another capsule. Contact your oncology team for instructions because some medication may already have been absorbed.

Seek prompt medical advice if vomiting is persistent or you cannot keep fluids down.

Bone Marrow Suppression

One of the most important risks of Matulane is bone marrow suppression, also called myelosuppression.

Bone marrow is the soft tissue inside bones that produces red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.

Chemotherapy medications such as procarbazine can interfere with the production of these healthy blood cells.

As a result, the number of circulating blood cells may decrease during treatment.

Your oncology team will monitor your blood counts regularly and may adjust or delay treatment if necessary.

Low White Blood Cell Count (Leukopenia or Neutropenia)

White blood cells help protect the body against infections.

Matulane may reduce the number of these cells, particularly neutrophils, which are important for fighting bacterial and fungal infections.

When neutrophil levels become too low, the condition is called neutropenia.

People with neutropenia may develop serious infections even when symptoms initially seem mild.

Possible warning signs include fever, chills, sore throat, cough, painful urination, or unusual weakness.

A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher during chemotherapy requires urgent medical evaluation, unless your oncology team has provided a different emergency threshold.

Do not take fever-reducing medications to hide a fever before contacting your oncology team unless they have instructed you to do so.

Low Red Blood Cell Count (Anemia)

Red blood cells carry oxygen from the lungs to tissues throughout the body.

Matulane may reduce red blood cell production, leading to anemia.

Symptoms may include fatigue, weakness, dizziness, pale skin, shortness of breath, or a rapid heartbeat.

Severe anemia may require changes to your chemotherapy schedule or additional treatment.

Contact your oncology team if you develop persistent fatigue, shortness of breath, or unusual weakness.

Low Platelet Count (Thrombocytopenia)

Platelets help the blood clot and prevent excessive bleeding.

Matulane may reduce platelet production, increasing the risk of bruising and bleeding.

Possible symptoms include frequent nosebleeds, bleeding gums, unusual bruising, or small red or purple spots on the skin.

These small spots are called petechiae.

More serious symptoms include blood in the urine, black stools, or bleeding that does not stop.

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience significant or uncontrolled bleeding.

Regular blood tests are essential because blood cell counts may become dangerously low before noticeable symptoms develop.

Risk of Secondary Cancers

Matulane may increase the risk of developing a second cancer after treatment.

A secondary cancer is a new cancer that develops separately from the original cancer being treated.

Some chemotherapy medications can damage the DNA of both cancer cells and healthy cells.

Although this DNA damage helps destroy cancer cells, it may occasionally contribute to the development of another cancer years after treatment.

Secondary cancers reported in patients receiving procarbazine-containing chemotherapy include acute myeloid leukemia, myelodysplastic syndrome, and lung cancer.

Acute myeloid leukemia is a cancer affecting blood-forming cells in the bone marrow.

Myelodysplastic syndrome is a group of disorders in which the bone marrow does not produce healthy blood cells effectively. In some patients, it can progress to leukemia.

These risks may be influenced by the combination of chemotherapy drugs, radiation treatment, and other individual factors.

Smoking can further increase the risk of secondary lung cancer in patients treated with procarbazine.

Avoid tobacco products and discuss smoking cessation support with your healthcare provider if necessary.

Your oncology team will consider these risks when selecting treatment and planning long-term follow-up care. 

Pregnancy and Risk of Harm to an Unborn Baby

Matulane can cause serious harm to a developing baby and should not be used during pregnancy unless an oncology specialist determines that treatment is medically necessary.

Procarbazine damages genetic material in cells, which is part of how it treats cancer.

However, this action may also interfere with normal fetal development.

Exposure during pregnancy may increase the risk of miscarriage, birth defects, or other serious complications.

Tell your oncology team immediately if you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are planning to become pregnant.

Patients who can become pregnant and patients with partners who can become pregnant should discuss effective contraception during and after treatment.

The required duration of contraception depends on current prescribing guidance and your individual treatment plan.

Procarbazine may also affect fertility in both men and women.

Some patients may experience reduced sperm production, changes in menstrual function, or infertility.

Discuss fertility preservation options with your oncology team before starting treatment if having children in the future is important to you.

If pregnancy occurs during treatment, contact your oncology team immediately rather than independently changing your chemotherapy schedule. 

Alcohol and Disulfiram-Like Reactions

Alcohol must be avoided during Matulane treatment.

Procarbazine can cause a reaction similar to the effects of disulfiram, a medication used in the treatment of alcohol dependence.

This is called a disulfiram-like reaction.

When alcohol is consumed during Matulane treatment, some patients may experience severe flushing, headache, nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, dizziness, or a rapid heartbeat.

Flushing is a sudden feeling of warmth and redness, particularly in the face and upper body.

These symptoms may occur even after relatively small amounts of alcohol.

Your oncology team may also recommend avoiding products containing propylene glycol, which can be found in certain medications and other preparations.

Do not drink beer, wine, spirits, or other alcoholic beverages while taking Matulane.

Alcohol restrictions may also need to continue after the final dose. Cancer Care Ontario recommends avoiding alcoholic drinks for 10–14 days after the last procarbazine capsule.

Ask your oncology team when it is safe to resume alcohol consumption. 

Serotonin Syndrome

Matulane may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome when combined with certain medications that increase serotonin activity.

Serotonin is a chemical messenger involved in mood, sleep, digestion, and other important body functions.

Serotonin syndrome occurs when serotonin activity becomes excessively high.

Procarbazine has monoamine oxidase-inhibiting activity, which makes certain medication combinations potentially dangerous.

The risk may increase when Matulane is combined with some antidepressants, opioid pain medications, or other serotonergic drugs.

Examples include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tramadol, and certain other medications.

Possible symptoms include agitation, confusion, heavy sweating, tremors, diarrhea, rapid heartbeat, and increased body temperature.

Severe symptoms may include muscle rigidity, high fever, seizures, or loss of consciousness.

Seek emergency medical attention if you develop symptoms suggesting serotonin syndrome.

Do not combine Matulane with serotonergic medications unless your oncology team has specifically reviewed and approved the treatment plan.

Foods High in Tyramine and High Blood Pressure

Matulane may also cause a dangerous increase in blood pressure when combined with foods containing high amounts of tyramine.

Tyramine is a naturally occurring substance found in certain aged, fermented, cured, or improperly stored foods.

Because procarbazine has monoamine oxidase-inhibiting activity, it may interfere with the normal breakdown of tyramine.

This can cause a sudden and potentially severe rise in blood pressure, sometimes called a hypertensive crisis.

Symptoms may include a severe headache, chest pain, palpitations, sweating, nausea, or visual disturbances.

Foods that may require avoidance include aged cheeses, cured meats, fermented soy products, and certain fermented beverages.

Your oncology team or dietitian should provide a complete list of dietary restrictions appropriate for your treatment.

Seek emergency medical attention if you develop a sudden severe headache, chest pain, or other symptoms suggesting a hypertensive crisis. 

When to Contact Your Oncology Team

Contact your oncology team promptly if you experience persistent vomiting, unusual bruising, bleeding, severe fatigue, dizziness, confusion, or difficulty maintaining adequate fluid intake.

Report any new medications or supplements before taking them, including cough and cold remedies.

Because Matulane can suppress the immune system, fever during chemotherapy must be treated seriously.

A temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or higher generally requires urgent medical assessment, unless your oncology team has provided a different emergency threshold.

Seek emergency medical attention for severe bleeding, difficulty breathing, seizures, suspected serotonin syndrome, or symptoms of dangerously elevated blood pressure.

What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Matulane?

If you forget to take a dose of Matulane, contact your oncology team for instructions before taking the missed dose. Matulane is a chemotherapy medication taken according to a carefully planned treatment schedule. The appropriate action depends on your prescribed regimen, how much time has passed, and when your next dose is scheduled. Unlike many everyday medications, chemotherapy doses should not automatically be taken as soon as you remember. Your oncology team may recommend skipping the missed dose or adjusting your treatment schedule. Do not take two doses at once or take extra capsules to make up for a missed dose. Taking more procarbazine than prescribed may increase the risk of serious side effects, including bone marrow suppression. Bone marrow suppression occurs when chemotherapy reduces the production of healthy blood cells, increasing the risk of infections, anemia, and bleeding. To help prevent missed doses, consider keeping a treatment calendar or setting reminders during your scheduled chemotherapy days. If you vomit shortly after taking Matulane, do not automatically repeat the dose. Contact your oncology team for advice because some medication may already have been absorbed.

Can Matulane Cause Fertility Problems or Birth Defects?

Yes. Matulane may affect fertility in both men and women and can cause serious harm to a developing baby if used during pregnancy. Procarbazine works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from growing and multiplying. However, it may also affect healthy reproductive cells, including sperm and egg cells. In men, Matulane may reduce sperm production and affect fertility. Some men may experience a temporary reduction in sperm count, while others may develop long-term or permanent infertility. The risk depends on factors such as the chemotherapy regimen, total treatment exposure, age, and individual health. Men who wish to have biological children in the future should discuss sperm banking with their oncology team before starting treatment. In women, Matulane may affect ovarian function and fertility. Some women may experience irregular menstrual periods or temporary or permanent loss of menstruation. Chemotherapy may also damage egg cells and increase the risk of premature ovarian insufficiency, a condition in which the ovaries stop functioning normally earlier than expected. The likelihood of infertility depends on age, treatment intensity, and the other chemotherapy medications being used. Women who wish to have children in the future should discuss fertility preservation options, such as egg or embryo freezing, before beginning treatment. Matulane can also cause serious harm to a developing baby because it interferes with normal cell growth and DNA function. Exposure during pregnancy may increase the risk of miscarriage, birth defects, and other complications. Tell your oncology team if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant. Effective contraception is important during treatment and for the recommended period after the final dose. Patients whose partners could become pregnant should also discuss appropriate contraception because chemotherapy may affect sperm. Discuss fertility preservation and pregnancy prevention with your oncology team before starting Matulane whenever possible. If pregnancy occurs during treatment, contact your oncology team immediately. Do not stop or change your chemotherapy schedule without medical guidance.

Can I Drink Alcohol While Taking Matulane?

No. Alcohol should be avoided while taking Matulane because it can cause a potentially serious reaction. Procarbazine can interfere with how the body processes alcohol, producing a reaction similar to the one caused by disulfiram, a medication used to discourage alcohol consumption. This is called a disulfiram-like reaction. Possible symptoms include facial flushing, severe nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, headache, dizziness, and a rapid heartbeat. These effects may occur even after consuming relatively small amounts of alcohol. Alcohol may also worsen chemotherapy-related side effects, including nausea, dehydration, fatigue, and dizziness. Avoid beer, wine, spirits, and other alcoholic beverages throughout your treatment. Certain medications and products containing alcohol or propylene glycol may also need to be avoided. Your oncology team may recommend continuing these restrictions for a period after your final Matulane dose. Ask your oncology team when it is safe to resume drinking alcohol. Do not assume alcohol is safe immediately after completing a treatment cycle. Seek urgent medical attention if you develop severe vomiting, chest pain, fainting, or other concerning symptoms after consuming alcohol. 

How Long Does It Take for Matulane to Start Working?

Matulane begins affecting susceptible cancer cells during treatment, but it may take several weeks or treatment cycles before your oncology team can determine how well it is working. The response depends on the type and stage of cancer, the chemotherapy medications used alongside Matulane, and your individual health. Procarbazine works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, interfering with their ability to grow and divide. However, cancer cells do not all respond to chemotherapy at the same rate. Some patients may notice improvements in symptoms, such as reduced lymph node swelling or fewer night sweats, during treatment. Other patients may not notice an immediate physical change, even when chemotherapy is working. For this reason, your oncology team will assess treatment effectiveness using medical examinations and appropriate tests rather than symptoms alone. These may include blood tests, CT scans, or PET scans, depending on your cancer diagnosis and treatment plan. Blood tests are also important for monitoring treatment safety, particularly because Matulane can reduce healthy blood cell counts. Your oncology team will determine when to assess your response and whether further treatment, dosage adjustments, or another approach is necessary. Continue following your prescribed chemotherapy schedule, including any planned treatment breaks. Do not stop taking Matulane or increase your dose because you have not noticed an immediate improvement. Contact your oncology team if your symptoms become worse or you develop new concerns during treatment.

REVIEWS

Additional Information Book
Generic name:

Procarbazine

Formulation:

Capsule

Strength(s):

50mg

Quantities Available:

50

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Our online Canadian Pharmacy is known for high standards of quality, safety, and efficiency when it comes to medications.

Our pharmacy offers lower prices on prescription drugs compared to traditional pharmacies.

How to Order

How much Matulane can I order at once from a Canadian pharmacy?

When ordering Matulane (procarbazine) from a Canadian pharmacy, you can typically purchase up to a 90-day supply at one time, which is common for prescription medications to ensure adequate management of treatment without frequent refills.

Here’s what you need to know:

Dosage and Quantity: Matulane is commonly prescribed in dosages of 50 mg, taken once or twice daily for 14 days per cycle, followed by a rest period. For a 90-day supply, the quantity you will order will be based on the specific dosage instructions prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Do you sell procarbazine?

Yes, we sell procarbazine on our website. You can enjoy low prices when you order through us. To purchase procarbazine, you will need a valid prescription from your healthcare provider. We require this prescription to dispense the medication safely and appropriately. You can submit your prescription by mailing it to us, faxing it, or uploading it through your online account.

Do you offer shipping of Matulane (procarbazine) to the United States?

Yes, we ship Matulane (procarbazine) to both the United States and Puerto Rico.

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Online Pharmacies Canada has provided information from third parties intended to increase awareness and does not contain all the information about Matulane (Procarbazine). Talk to your doctor or other qualified medical practitioners for medical attention or advice, or if you have any concerns about Matulane (Procarbazine).