P Carzine contains Procarbazine, is a chemotherapy drug used to treat Hodgkin’s lymphoma and certain brain tumors (like gliomas). It belongs to a class of drugs known as alkylating agents and works by stopping cancer cell growth. It is usually given in combination with other chemotherapy drugs, such as in the MOPP (Mechlorethamine, Vincristine, Procarbazine, Prednisone) and PCV (Procarbazine, Lomustine, Vincristine) regimens.

Mechanism of Action

• Procarbazine damages the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from dividing and growing.
• It creates free radicals that break DNA strands, leading to cancer cell death.
• It is most effective in the S (synthesis) and G2 phases of the cell cycle.
• Procarbazine also inhibits monoamine oxidase (MAO), which means it can interact with certain foods and drugs.

Uses of Procarbazine

1. Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

• Used as part of the MOPP chemotherapy regimen.
• Helps in advanced cases or when other treatments don’t work.

2. Brain Tumors (Gliomas, Astrocytomas)

• Included in the PCV regimen for high-grade gliomas (like glioblastomas and anaplastic astrocytomas).
• Effective because it crosses the blood-brain barrier and reaches brain tumors.

3. Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (Off-Label Use)

• Sometimes used for aggressive lymphomas when combined with other drugs.

Dosage and Administration

Standard Dosage for Adults

• Hodgkin’s Lymphoma (MOPP Regimen): 100 mg/m² per day for 14 days in a 28-day cycle.
• Brain Tumors (PCV Regimen): 60 mg/m² per day for 14 days in a 6-week cycle.

How to Take Procarbazine

• Taken by mouth (oral capsule).
• Avoid alcohol and certain foods (cheese, fermented foods) due to its MAO-inhibiting effect.

Dose Adjustments

• Kidney or liver disease: May require a lower dose.
• Elderly patients: May need a reduced starting dose due to slower drug metabolism.

Side Effects of Procarbazine

Common Side Effects

• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue and weakness
• Dizziness and headache
• Constipation or diarrhea

Serious Side Effects

Bone Marrow Suppression (Low Blood Counts):

• Can cause anemia, infections, and bleeding problems.
• Requires regular blood tests (CBC monitoring).

Neurological Effects:

• Peripheral neuropathy (tingling, numbness).
• Confusion or hallucinations in rare cases.

Lung or Liver Toxicity:

• May affect lung function (pulmonary toxicity).
• Can cause liver enzyme changes (needs liver function monitoring).

Increased Cancer Risk:

• May increase the risk of leukemia after long-term use.