What it means
A dopamine blocker related to the older antipsychotic drugs. It is given by mouth, rectal suppository, IM or IV for severe nausea and vomiting and sometimes for migraine, and at higher doses for psychosis. Side effects include drowsiness, low blood pressure on standing and movement problems such as restlessness and muscle spasms.
For the nurse
Watch for sudden muscle spasms of the face, neck or eyes and report them; benztropineBENZ-troh-peenAn anticholinergic drug used to treat movement side effects of antipsychotic drugs and symptoms of Parkinson disease.Full entry or diphenhydramine may be ordered. Have the client rise slowly. Older adults with dementia-related psychosis have a higher risk of death on this class of drug.
At a glance
| Drug class | antiemetic (phenothiazine) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Compazine, Compro (suppository) |
| Also written | Compazine, Compro |
Related terms
nausea
An uneasy feeling in the stomach with the urge to vomit.
metoclopramide
A drug that speeds emptying of the stomach and lessens nausea by blocking dopamine.
benztropine
An anticholinergic drug used to treat movement side effects of antipsychotic drugs and symptoms of Parkinson disease.