You're not logged in. Please log in to earn stock or Bitcoin rewards on your prescription purchase.
chlorproMAZINE HCl
Chlorpromazine HCl is an antipsychotic medication belonging to the phenothiazine class, commonly used to treat a variety of psychiatric and neurological disorders. It is primarily prescribed for schizophrenia, bipolar disorder (mania), severe behavioral disorders, and nausea or vomiting. It works by altering the activity of certain neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly dopamine. Chlorpromazine is also used for severe anxiety and to manage agitation in acute psychosis.
Rx. Enter your prescription
How would you like to get your prescription? Select an option
Pharmacy pickup
Select from 35,000 pharmacies
Free two-day delivery
Coming soon!
Find a pharmacy near you. Enter your ZIP code
Are you a member? Sign up or log in.
Members have saved
$NaN
using our savings card for instant savings.
Don't pay full retail price and miss out on potential savings. Try it now—you have nothing to lose!
NaNM
worth of Satoshi has been rewarded to our members.
Everyone who signs up enjoys the benefits of earning FREE Bitcoin with every purchase.
How much Bitcoin can you earn with chlorproMAZINE HCl ?
The potential for Bitcoin rewards to increase and appreciate in value is a possibility to consider, which may occur over time.
See the value of your savings today
Today's Value
1 Bitcoin = $NaN
Bitcoin (BTC)
...
USD
$NaN
Adjust Bitcoin's potential value to see how much it could be worth
Potential Value
1 Bitcoin =
Bitcoin (BTC)
...
USD
$NaN
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for Chlorpromazine to start working?
Chlorpromazine may start to have sedative effects within 30 to 60 minutes after taking a dose. However, it may take several days to weeks to see the full therapeutic effect for conditions like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Chlorpromazine?
No, alcohol should be avoided while taking Chlorpromazine, as both substances can depress the central nervous system, leading to excessive sedation, impaired coordination, and respiratory depression.
How long can I take Chlorpromazine?
Chlorpromazine may be prescribed for short-term or long-term use, depending on the condition. Long-term use requires regular monitoring due to the risk of side effects like tardive dyskinesia and metabolic changes.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Chlorpromazine?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time for your next dose. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.
Can Chlorpromazine cause weight gain?
Yes, weight gain is a common side effect of Chlorpromazine, particularly with long-term use. It may increase appetite and slow metabolism.
Is Chlorpromazine safe during pregnancy?
Chlorpromazine is not generally recommended during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. It can cross the placenta and may affect the newborn, particularly if used in the third trimester. Always consult a healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Can Chlorpromazine cause drowsiness?
Yes, Chlorpromazine often causes drowsiness or sedation, especially at higher doses. Patients should avoid driving or operating machinery until they know how the drug affects them.
Comprehensive Drug Guide
How Does chlorproMAZINE HCl Work?
Chlorpromazine works by blocking dopamine D2 receptors in the brain, which helps to reduce symptoms of psychosis, such as hallucinations and delusions. It also blocks other neurotransmitters like serotonin, acetylcholine, and histamine, contributing to its sedative, antiemetic, and anxiolytic effects. By modulating dopamine pathways, Chlorpromazine helps restore chemical balance in the brain.
What is chlorproMAZINE HCl Used For?
Chlorpromazine is used to treat certain mental/mood disorders like schizophrenia, the manic phase of bipolar disorder, and severe behavioral problems in children.
Common Dosages
- Schizophrenia (Adults):
- Initial dose: 25 mg to 50 mg taken 3 times daily.
- Maintenance dose: Adjusted to 200 mg to 800 mg per day in divided doses, depending on response.
- Bipolar Mania (Adults):
- Initial dose: 10 mg to 25 mg taken 3 times daily, with gradual increases as needed.
- Severe Behavioral Disorders in Children (6 months to 12 years):
- Initial dose: 0.5 mg per pound of body weight every 4 to 6 hours.
- Nausea/Vomiting (Adults):
- 10 mg to 25 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
- Persistent Hiccups:
- 25 mg to 50 mg 3 to 4 times daily.
Typical Dosing
FDA Approved Indications
- Schizophrenia: To manage psychotic symptoms like hallucinations and delusions.
- Bipolar Disorder: To manage manic episodes.
- Severe Behavioral Disorders in Children: For children with hyperactivity, aggression, or severe mood swings.
- Nausea and Vomiting: When other antiemetic medications are ineffective.
- Hiccups: Persistent hiccups that do not respond to other treatments.
- Tetanus: As part of symptomatic treatment to reduce severe agitation and muscle spasms.
Pediatric Dosing
- Pediatric dosing of chlorpromazine depends on the condition it's being used for and the child's weight. Always follow the doctor's instructions.
- Children may need a lower dose than adults, depending on weight and severity of symptoms.
- Watch out for any changes in behavior or emotions in kids on this medication, and report them to the doctor.
- Be aware that long-term use can affect growth in children.
- Do not suddenly stop giving this medication to your child, as it may lead to withdrawal symptoms. Always follow your doctor's advice on tapering the dose.
Who Shouldn't Take chlorproMAZINE HCl?
- Hypersensitivity to chlorpromazine or other phenothiazines.
- Severe central nervous system depression, including coma or severe sedation.
- Bone marrow suppression, as chlorpromazine can reduce white blood cell counts.
- Severe liver disease.
Advice From The Pharmacist
- Take the medication exactly as prescribed and not to stop abruptly, especially if they have been taking it for a long period, as withdrawal symptoms can occur.
- Avoid alcohol and other central nervous system depressants, as these can enhance the sedative effects of chlorpromazine.
- Use caution when driving or operating machinery, as chlorpromazine can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision.
- Stay hydrated and avoid overheating, as the medication can impair the body’s ability to regulate temperature.
- Inform their healthcare provider if they have a history of liver disease, kidney disease, or cardiovascular problems.
- Be aware that chlorpromazine may increase sun sensitivity, so wearing sunscreen and protective clothing is recommended.
Side Effects of chlorproMAZINE HCl
Common Side Effects
- Drowsiness or sedation
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision
- Constipation
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Weight gain
Uncommon/Severe Side Effects
- Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS): Such as tremors, muscle stiffness, and tardive dyskinesia (involuntary muscle movements).
- Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): A rare but life-threatening reaction characterized by fever, muscle rigidity, confusion, and autonomic instability.
- Hypotension: Especially when standing up (orthostatic hypotension).
- Agranulocytosis: A severe drop in white blood cell count, leading to a higher risk of infection.
- Seizures: In rare cases, chlorpromazine can lower the seizure threshold.
Risks and Warnings of chlorproMAZINE HCl
- Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS): Chlorpromazine can cause movement-related side effects like tremors, muscle stiffness, and involuntary movements. These symptoms are more common with higher doses and long-term use.
- Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): This rare but serious condition can occur with the use of antipsychotics like chlorpromazine. Symptoms include fever, muscle rigidity, and altered mental status. Immediate medical attention is required.
- Orthostatic Hypotension: Patients should be advised to rise slowly from a sitting or lying position, as chlorpromazine can cause significant drops in blood pressure when standing.
- Sun Sensitivity: Chlorpromazine can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, leading to an increased risk of sunburn. Patients should use sunscreen and wear protective clothing.
- Long-Term Use: Long-term use of chlorpromazine, especially at high doses, may increase the risk of tardive dyskinesia, a condition characterized by repetitive, involuntary movements.
Interactions with chlorproMAZINE HCl
Common Drug Interactions
- Other CNS Depressants (e.g., opioids, benzodiazepines, alcohol): Increases the risk of sedation, respiratory depression, and overdose.
- Anticholinergics: May increase the risk of anticholinergic side effects, such as dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation.
- Antihypertensives: May enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects, increasing the risk of hypotension.
- Levodopa: Used for Parkinson’s disease, may be less effective when taken with chlorpromazine, as both drugs affect dopamine.
- Lithium: May increase the risk of neurotoxicity when used together.
Alternatives to chlorproMAZINE HCl
- Other Antipsychotics: Such as risperidone (Risperdal), quetiapine (Seroquel), or aripiprazole (Abilify), which are often used as second-generation (atypical) antipsychotics with a lower risk of movement-related side effects.
- Mood Stabilizers: Such as lithium or valproic acid for managing bipolar disorder.
- Benzodiazepines: Such as lorazepam (Ativan) for short-term management of agitation and anxiety.
- Antiemetics: Such as ondansetron for the treatment of nausea and vomiting.
