Chlordiazepoxide

No Comments

Chlordiazepoxide was introduced in the late 1960′s so it has been around for many years. It belongs to a group of drugs known as benzodiazepines (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peens). It is used to help alleviate nervousness and tension, as well as helping to relax muscles and encourage sleep. Chlordiazepoxide works by acting on receptors in the brain called GABA receptors. This causes the release of a neurotransmitter called GABA in the brain. Although it is mainly used to treat anxiety it is also used to to relieve the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. Chlordiazepoxide is sometimes used with amitriptyline as a combined preparation and can be used to treat depression associated with anxiety.

If this medication is used over a long period of time it can give rise to dependency and withdrawal symptoms, as well as losing it effectiveness, it is for this reason that chlordiazepoxide may be prescribed for a short period of time only, usually two to four weeks.

Quick Guide

• Antianxiety with overdose danger – MEDIUM.
• Dependency is said to be – MEDIUM.
• Prescription only drug – YES.
• Available as generic – YES. (generic drugs, short: generics) is a drug which is produced and distributed without patent protection.
• Alcohol Avoidance – YES.
• Alcohol may increase sedative effect of chlordiazepoxide.

Side Effects

You may if on this medication suffer one or more of these side effects, in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all, as it does not follow that being on this medication will cause unwanted adverse effects.

Common: Daytime drowsiness, dizziness
Rare: Blurred vision, confusion, forgetful, headaches, rash

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using this medication It does not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or some other side effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or chemist.

Prolonged Use

Sedative effects of this drug normally diminish over the first few days it may also be habit forming, when taken over extended periods. Regular use of this drug may also diminish its effect. Withdrawal of a benzodiazepine should be gradual because abrupt withdrawal may produce confusion, toxic psychosis, and convulsions.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

Chlordiazepoxide may impair judgement and increase reaction time, and so affect ability to drive or operate machinery Avoid driving/hazardous work until you know how it affects you. Alcohol increases the effects of drug.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

You will need to discuss chlordiazepoxide with your doctor as it is unknown how it may affect you in pregnancy. The drug passes into the breast milk. and may affect your baby.

Chlordiazepoxide is classified a pregnancy Category D medicine by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Category D… There is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience or studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Tell Your Doctor Or Pharmacist

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary / alternative medication.

Over 60′s & Children

A reduced dose may be necessary for the elderly. Chlordiazepoxide would not be recommended for Infants/children.

Overdose

A large overdose may cause breathing problems or fits to occur. Take emergency action if consciousness is lost. If you are aware of someone who has taken a large overdose you should take them to your nearest accident and emergency department, taking the container with you. Even if it is empty.

Other Medication Reactions

All drugs that have a sedative effect on the nervous system will more likely than not increase the the sedative properties of this drug these include: anti-anxiety and sleeping drugs, antihistamines, opioid analgesics, antidepressants and antipsychotics. Chlordiazepoxide may increase or decrease the effects of some anti-convulsant drugs. Take this medicine exactly as directed by your doctor.

Missed A Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

If you have been taking the drug for less than 2 weeks continuously. It can be stopped as soon as you feel you are no-longer in need. However, do not stop abruptly if you have been taking it longer consult your doctor first he may supervise a gradual reduction, other wise you could suffer withdrawal symptoms.

Effect Of Medication

The effects of the drug can be felt within 1 – 2 hours of taking. The Duration may last 12 to 24 hours. But some effects may last up to 4 days.

Storage and Safety

• Keep medicine in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach and eye sight of children.
• Do not store medication above a temperature of 25°C.
• Never take more than the original dosage prescribed by your doctor.
• Do not take chlordiazepoxide that has past its expiry date shown on the box or container.
• Do not discard old or unwanted drugs into your trash, sink or toilet.
• Return all unused or old medicines to your pharmacist.

If this chlordiazepoxide has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or others feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.