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Chlorpromazine - Indications, Dosage, Side Effects and Precautions

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Information about Chlorpromazine

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

Pronunciation : klor proe' ma zeen

Learn the correct pronunciation of the Chlorpromazine, 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 : Y49.5 Therapeutic Classification : Psychotherapeutics

Trade Names/Brand Names of Chlorpromazine

India :

International :


Thorazine

Why is Chlorpromazine Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is an antipsychotic, tranquilizer and antiemetic drug, prescribed for mental or mood disorders (schizophrenia). It is also used to prevent and treat nausea and vomiting, fearness before surgery, used as an adjunct in the treatment of tetanus.

When should Chlorpromazine not be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with coma and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Chlorpromazine?

Dose is based on patient’s condition. The recommended dose range is 100 to 800mg/day.

How should Chlorpromazine be taken?

It comes as a tablet, capsule and liquid to take by mouth, with or without food. It also comes as a solution for injection to be administered by a healthcare provider into the large muscle.

What are the warnings and precautions for Chlorpromazine?

• Caution should be exercised in patients with history of seizures, blood disease, low blood pressure, increased eye pressure, enlarged prostate, Parkinson disease, Reye syndrome, an abnormal electroencephalogram, alcohol addiction, difficulty in urinating, any allergy, who are taking other medications, elderly, children, during pregnancy and breast feeding.

• It may cause dizziness, drowsiness or lightheadedness, do not drive a car or operate dangerous machinery and get up slowly from bed while taking this medication.

• Avoid abrupt withdrawal; withdraw gradually.

• Patient may develop with increased risk of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), tardive dyskinesia (on long-term therapy) with the following symptoms: fever, stiff muscles, confusion, abnormal thinking, fast or irregular heartbeat, involuntary movements and sweating. If it so consult with your doctor.

• Avoid taking this medication before 2 days or after 1 day of myelogram test.

• Avoid alcohol consumption.

What are the side effects of Chlorpromazine?

Most Common - Jaundice, involuntary muscle movements, reduced white blood cell counts, low blood pressure and drowsiness.
Central Nervous System - Agitation, insomnia, depression and convulsions.
Gastrointestinal - Dry mouth and constipation.
Genitourinary - Absence of menstrual cycle, breast enlargement in males and urinary retention.
Miscellaneous - Allergic skin reactions, increased sugar, weight gain and dilatation of pupil.

What are the other precautions for Chlorpromazine?

Avoid exposure to sunlight; otherwise it may cause sunburn.
Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Chlorpromazine?

Store it at controlled room temperature (15-30°C).

Schedule : H
Prescription drugs - Drugs to be sold only under the prescription of a Registered Medical Practitioner.
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