Chlorpromazine

Pronounced: klor-PROME-ah-zeen

Why is Chlorpromazine prescribed?

Chlorpromazine is used for the treatment of schizophrenia (severe disruptions in thought and perception). It is also prescribed for the short-term treatment of severe behavioral disorders in children, including explosive hyperactivity and combativeness; and for the manic phase of bipolar disorder.

Chlorpromazine is also used to control nausea and vomiting, and to relieve restlessness and apprehension before surgery. It is used as an aid in the treatment of tetanus, and is prescribed for uncontrollable hiccups and acute intermittent porphyria (attacks of severe abdominal pain sometimes accompanied by psychiatric disturbances, cramps in the arms and legs, and muscle weakness).

Most important fact about Chlorpromazine

Chlorpromazine may cause tardive dyskinesia--a condition marked by involuntary muscle spasms and twitches in the face and body. This condition may be permanent, and appears to be most common among the elderly, especially women. Ask your doctor for information about this possible risk.

How should you take Chlorpromazine?

If taking chlorpromazine in a liquid concentrate form, you will need to dilute it with a liquid such as a carbonated beverage, coffee, fruit juice, milk, tea, tomato juice, or water. Puddings, soups, and other semisolid foods may also be used. Chlorpromazine will taste best if it is diluted immediately prior to use. You should not take chlorpromazine with alcohol.

Do not take antacids such as Gelusil at the same time as chlorpromazine. Leave at least 1 to 2 hours between doses of the two drugs.

--If you miss a dose...

If you take chlorpromazine once a day, take the dose you missed as soon as you remember. If you do not remember until the next day, skip the dose, then go back to your regular schedule.

If you take more than 1 dose a day, take the one you missed as soon as you remember if it is within an hour or so of the scheduled time. If you do not remember until later, skip the dose, then go back to your regular schedule.