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Procarbazine

Prescription
Alkylating Agent / MOPP Component (Chemotherapy)
Last reviewed 21 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog, Cat
Brands
2 available
Interactions
2 documented
Formulations
1

Mechanism of action

Methylhydrazine derivative that is oxidized intracellularly to form alkylating metabolites that crosslink DNA. Also inhibits DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis. Component of MOPP protocol for lymphoma rescue.

At a glance

Class
Alkylating Agent / MOPP Component (Chemotherapy)
Schedule
Prescription (Chemotherapy)
Storage
Store at room temperature 15–30°C; protect from moisture and excessive heat; chemotherapy precautions

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Used as rescue protocol for refractory lymphoma (MOPP)
Dose
—
Route
PO
Frequency
q24h for 14 days per cycle
🐈

Cat

Rarely used in cats
Dose
25–50 mg/m²
Route
PO
Frequency
q24h x 14 days

Formulations

💊

Other — 1

Strength
—

Storage

Store at room temperature 15–30°C; protect from moisture and excessive heat; chemotherapy precautions

Safety

Monitoring parameters

CBC at nadir (day 14–21)Neurological assessmentHepatic enzymes

Interactions

Contraindicated — 2

Tramadol
contraindicated
Procarbazine has MAO inhibitor activity. Tramadol is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Combined: serotonin syndrome.
Management: NEVER combine. Use non-serotonergic analgesic during procarbazine (MOPP) chemotherapy.
Fluoxetine
contraindicated
Procarbazine (MAOI activity) + SSRI: serotonin syndrome.
Management: NEVER combine. Discontinue SSRI with adequate washout before MOPP protocol.

Brands

Other markets

Matulane
Natulan

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

›What is Procarbazine?
Procarbazine is a alkylating agent / mopp component (chemotherapy) used in pets. Methylhydrazine derivative that is oxidized intracellularly to form alkylating metabolites that crosslink DNA. Also inhibits DNA, RNA, and protein synthesis. Component of MOPP protocol for lymphoma rescue.
›What is Procarbazine used for in pets?
Procarbazine is used in veterinary medicine for: Used as rescue protocol for refractory lymphoma (MOPP); Rarely used in cats.
›What is the Procarbazine dose for dogs?
For dogs, Procarbazine is typically dosed as follows — Used as rescue protocol for refractory lymphoma (MOPP): undefined undefined PO q24h for 14 days per cycle. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›What is the Procarbazine dose for cats?
For cats, Procarbazine is typically dosed as follows — Rarely used in cats: 25–50 mg/m² PO q24h x 14 days. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
›Does Procarbazine need a prescription?
Yes. Procarbazine is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.

References

References

Textbooks & handbooks

  • Plumb, D.C. Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2023.
  • Vail, D.M., Thamm, D.H., & Liptak, J.M. (eds.). Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology. 6th ed., Saunders/Elsevier, 2020.
  • Riviere, J.E., & Papich, M.G. (eds.). Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics. 10th ed., Wiley-Blackwell, 2018.
  • National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, Washington DC, 2006.
  • The Merck Veterinary Manual. Merck & Co., Online edition. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/

Clinical guidelines & consensus

  • Fletcher, D.J., Boller, M., Brainard, B.M., et al. "RECOVER Evidence and Knowledge Gap Analysis on Veterinary CPR." Journal of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care, 2012;22(S1):S102–S131.
  • American Animal Hospital Association. 2018 AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines for Dogs and Cats. AAHA Press.

Journals & peer-reviewed studies

  • Hogan, D.F., Fox, P.R., Jacob, K., et al. "Secondary prevention of cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism in the cat: The FAT CAT study." Journal of Veterinary Cardiology, 2015;17(Suppl 1):S306–S317.
  • Boswood, A., Häggström, J., Gordon, S.G., et al. "Effect of Pimobendan in Dogs with Preclinical Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Cardiomegaly: The EPIC Study — A Randomized Clinical Trial." Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2016;30(6):1765–1779.
  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. Toxicology and Poison Management Guidelines. American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control

Regulatory & approvals

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), Government of India. Veterinary Drug Approval Registry, 1969–2026. Directorate General of Health Services. https://cdsco.gov.in/

Databases

  • Washington State University, College of Veterinary Medicine. Veterinary Clinical Pharmacology Laboratory (VCPL) — MDR1 Multidrug Sensitivity Database. https://vcpl.vetmed.wsu.edu/
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →