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Chloral Hydrate - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Chloral Hydrate

Generic Name : Chloral Hydrate
Up-to-date prescription details regarding Chloral Hydrate are provided here.

Pronunciation : klor al hi' drate

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Chloral Hydrate, understand it's uses, recommended dosages, its indications, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, warnings and its and its storage instructions.
You will also find a list of the medication's International and Indian brand or trade names, as well as its pricing information. For verification of the information presented on this page or for additional clarifications, it's advisable to consult your doctor.


ICD Code : Y47.5 Therapeutic Classification : Anxiolytics, Sedatives And Hypnotics

Trade Names/Brand Names of Chloral Hydrate

International :


Aquachloral, Noctec

Why is Chloral Hydrate Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an effective sedative and hypnotic agent, prescribed for insomnia. It works by depressing the central nervous system.

When should Chloral Hydrate not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with marked liver or kidney impairment, heart disease and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Chloral Hydrate?

Adult- Hypnotic- The recommended dose is 500 mg to 1 g, taken 15 to 30 minutes before bedtime or surgery.
Sedative – The recommended dose is 250 mg 3 times/day after meals.
Child- Hypnotic- The recommended dose is 50 mg/ kg/day as a single dose.
Sedative- 25mg/kg/day.

How should Chloral Hydrate be taken?

It comes as a capsule, oral liquid to take by mouth with food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Chloral Hydrate?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of throat inflammation, ulcer, blood disorder, depression, suicidal thoughts, alcohol abuse, any allergy, who are taking other medications, children, during pregnancy and breast-feeding.

• It may cause drowsiness or dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.

• Avoid alcohol consumption.

What are the side effects of Chloral Hydrate?

Central Nervous System - Excitement, tolerance, addiction, mental illness, drowsiness, staggering gait, incoordination, lightheadedness, fainting, dizziness, nightmares, uneasiness, mental confusion and hallucinations.
Blood - Decrease in white blood cells and increased eosinophilia.
Skin - Allergic skin rashes including hives, redness and inflammation.
Gastrointestinal - Gastric irritation, nausea, vomiting, flatulence, diarrhea, and unpleasant taste.
Miscellaneous - Rarely headache, hangover and idiosyncratic syndrome can occur.

What are the other precautions for Chloral Hydrate?

Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Chloral Hydrate?

Store it at controlled room temperature (15°-30° C) and in an airtight container, keep away from children.
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