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Chlordiazepoxide

    Brands

    DEA Class;  Rx

    Common Brand Names; Librium

    • Antianxiety Agents; 
    • Anxiolytics, Benzodiazepines

    Binds receptors at several sites within the CNS, including the limbic system and reticular formation. Effects may be mediated through the GABA receptor system. Increase in neuronal membrane permeability to chloride ions enhances the inhibitory effects of GABA; the shift in chloride ions causes hyperpolarization (less excitability) and stabilization of the neuronal membrane

    Indicated for the Anxiety, Preoperative Apprehension & Anxiety

    Documented hypersensitivity to drug or component of the formulation

    • Ataxia
    • Drowsiness
    • Memory impairment
    • Sedation
    • Muscle weakness
    • Rash
    • Decreased libido
    • Menstrual disorders
    • Xerostomia
    • Salivation decreased
    • Increased/decreased appetite
    • Weight gain/loss
    • Micturition difficulties
    • Confusion
    • Dizziness
    • Disinhibition
    • Akathisia
    • Dermatitis
    • Hypotension
    • Salivation increased
    • Sexual dysfunction
    • Incontinence
    • Rigidity
    • Tremor
    • Muscle cramps
    • Tinnitus
    • Nasal congestion

    Patient should be observed for up to 3 hours following administration

    Anterograde amnesia associated with treatment

    Use caution in renal and hepatic impairment

    Use caution in respiratory disease (COPD), sleep apnea, porphyria, open-angle glaucoma (questionable), depression, suicidal ideation, impaired gag reflex

    May impair ability to perform hazardous tasks

    Paradoxical reactions, including hyperactive or aggressive behavior, reported

    Use caution in patients with depression, especially if suicidal risk present

    Ataxia and oversadation may occur in the elderly and debilitated patients; there also increased risk of falls

    Use caution in patients with history of drug abuse or acute alcoholism; tolerance, psychological and physical dependence may occur with prolonged use

    Pregnancy category: D

    Lactation: Enters breast milk/not recommended

    Adults

    Anxiety

    Mild/moderate: 5-10 mg PO q6-8hr

    Severe: 20-25 mg PO q6-8hr

    Preoperative Apprehension & Anxiety

    5-10 mg PO q6-8hr

    Pediatric

    Anxiety

    <6 years: Safety and efficacy not established

    >6 years: 5 mg PO BID/QID; may increase dose to 10 mg PO BID/TID if necessary

    GERIATRIC

    Anxiety

    Lower initial dose: 5 mg PO q6-12hr; adjust gradually based on response and incidence of adverse effects

    Chlordiazepoxide

    capsule: Schedule IV

    • 5mg
    • 10mg
    • 25mg