Chlorpromazine Hydrochloride
Generic Details
Generic Name
Chlorpromazine Hydrochloride
Other Names
- Chlorpromazine HCl
- Thorazine
Drug Class
- Antipsychotic
Chemical Formula
C17H19ClN2S
Molecular Weight
318.861 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Blocks dopamine receptors in the brain
Indications
- Schizophrenia
- Bipolar disorder
- Nausea and vomiting
- Severe behavioral problems in children
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Injection
- Syrup
Typical Dosage
- 25-100 mg orally 3 times a day
Pediatric Dosage
- 2-6 years: 1-2.5 mg/kg/day in divided doses
- 6-12 years: 1-3 mg/kg/day in divided doses
Geriatric Dosage
- Lower doses are recommended due to increased sensitivity to the drug
Side Effects
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Blurred vision
- Extrapyramidal symptoms
Contraindications
- Coma
- Severe CNS depression
- Severe liver or cardiovascular disease
Pregnancy Category
- C - Risk cannot be ruled out
Lactation Safety
- Caution advised, excreted in breast milk
Drug Interactions
- Avoid concomitant use with CNS depressants
- May enhance effects of antihypertensive drugs
Overdose Symptoms
- Hypotension
- Arrhythmias
- Coma
- Respiratory depression
Antidote for Overdose
- Activated charcoal
- Symptomatic treatment
Storage Conditions
- Store at room temperature away from light and moisture
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Well absorbed orally
- Distribution: Crosses the blood-brain barrier and placenta
- Metabolism: Metabolized in the liver
- Excretion: Excreted in urine and feces
Precautions
- Use with caution in elderly patients
- Monitor for signs of neuroleptic malignant syndrome
Warnings
- May cause drowsiness, avoid driving or operating machinery
Others
- Should be used with caution in patients with glaucoma or prostatic hypertrophy