Chlorpromazine Hydrochloride

Generic Name: chlorpromazine hydrochloride

Over-the-Counter (OTC)

Brand Names:

Chlorpromazine Hydrochloride

Chlorpromazine hydrochloride is a phenothiazine derivative used for the treatment of psychotic disorders, schizophrenia, nausea and vomiting control, presurgical anxiety, acute intermittent porphyria, manic episodes, intractable hiccups, and severe behavioral problems in children.

Overview

Chlorpromazine hydrochloride is a phenothiazine derivative used for the treatment of psychotic disorders, schizophrenia, nausea and vomiting control, presurgical anxiety, acute intermittent porphyria, manic episodes, intractable hiccups, and severe behavioral problems in children.

Uses

Treatment of psychotic disorders, schizophrenia, nausea and vomiting control, presurgical anxiety, acute intermittent porphyria, tetanus adjunct therapy, manic episodes, intractable hiccups, and severe behavioral problems in children aged 1 to 12 years.

Dosage

Adult dosing varies by condition. For psychotic disorders: 200 mg daily is not unusual with some patients requiring higher amounts. Elderly patients require lower dosages with careful monitoring. Pediatric dosing: one-quarter mg/lb body weight every 4 to 6 hours for behavioral issues.

Side Effects

Common effects include drowsiness and jaundice. Serious reactions include agranulocytosis, cardiac arrhythmias, extrapyramidal symptoms, and tardive dyskinesia. Long-term use may cause skin pigmentation and ocular changes.

Interactions

Prolongs and intensifies CNS depressants, requiring dosage reductions. Diminishes oral anticoagulant effects and may cause phenytoin toxicity.

Warnings

Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at increased risk of death (1.6 to 1.7 times placebo rates). Additional concerns include neuroleptic malignant syndrome, tardive dyskinesia, and pregnancy risks. Contraindicated in phenothiazine hypersensitivity or comatose states.

Pregnancy

Safety unestablished. Prolonged jaundice and extrapyramidal signs reported in exposed newborns. Third-trimester exposure risks neonatal withdrawal symptoms requiring intensive care.

Storage

Store at 20 to 25 degrees C (68 to 77 degrees F). Protect from light and moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chlorpromazine Hydrochloride used for?

Treatment of psychotic disorders, schizophrenia, nausea and vomiting control, presurgical anxiety, acute intermittent porphyria, tetanus adjunct therapy, manic episodes, intractable hiccups, and severe behavioral problems in children aged 1 to 12 years.

What are the side effects of Chlorpromazine Hydrochloride?

Common effects include drowsiness and jaundice. Serious reactions include agranulocytosis, cardiac arrhythmias, extrapyramidal symptoms, and tardive dyskinesia. Long-term use may cause skin pigmentation and ocular changes.

Can I take Chlorpromazine Hydrochloride during pregnancy?

Safety unestablished. Prolonged jaundice and extrapyramidal signs reported in exposed newborns. Third-trimester exposure risks neonatal withdrawal symptoms requiring intensive care.

What are the important warnings for Chlorpromazine Hydrochloride?

Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at increased risk of death (1.6 to 1.7 times placebo rates). Additional concerns include neuroleptic malignant syndrome, tardive dyskinesia, and pregnancy risks. Contraindicated in phenothiazine hypersensitivity or comatose states.

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Medical Disclaimer

This drug information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Drug information is sourced from the FDA National Drug Code Directory and Structured Product Labeling. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.