Indications
Chlordiazepoxide is used for short-term relief of severe anxiety, and to manage symptoms of alcohol withdrawal under medical supervision.
How It Works
It is a benzodiazepine. It boosts the effect of GABA, a natural calming chemical in the brain, which reduces anxiety, tension and the shaking and agitation of alcohol withdrawal.
Dosage and Administration
- Adults, anxiety: usually 10 mg three times a day, which the doctor may adjust. Older or frail people usually start with a lower dose.
- Alcohol withdrawal: as prescribed, usually in a reducing course over several days under close medical supervision.
Use the lowest dose for the shortest time, normally no more than 2 to 4 weeks for anxiety. Do not stop suddenly after regular use; the doctor will reduce the dose gradually. Not for children unless a specialist prescribes it.
Interactions
Alcohol, opioid painkillers (such as Tramadol and Codeine), sleeping pills, antihistamines, some antidepressants and antipsychotics greatly increase drowsiness and can slow breathing dangerously. Some medicines such as Cimetidine, Ketoconazole and Omeprazole can raise its level. Tell your doctor about all your medicines.
Contraindications
- Allergy to chlordiazepoxide or other benzodiazepines.
- Severe breathing problems, sleep apnoea or myasthenia gravis.
- Severe liver disease.
- Use on its own for depression or long-term mental illness.
Side Effects
Common: drowsiness, tiredness, dizziness, unsteadiness and poor concentration, especially at the start. Others: confusion (more in older people, raising the risk of falls), memory problems, muscle weakness and changes in sex drive. Regular use can lead to dependence.
Get urgent medical help if breathing becomes slow or shallow, you cannot be woken easily, you have thoughts of harming yourself, unusual agitation or aggression, yellow skin or eyes, or signs of an allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Avoid in pregnancy, especially in the first and last three months, unless the doctor decides it is essential; it can cause breathing problems and withdrawal in the newborn. It passes into breast milk and can make the baby drowsy, so it is usually avoided while breastfeeding.
Precautions and Warnings
It can cause dependence and withdrawal symptoms (anxiety, sleeplessness, shaking, rarely seizures) if stopped suddenly. Do not drive or use machines if drowsy. Avoid alcohol. Use with caution in older people and in people with lung, liver or kidney disease, depression, or a history of drug or alcohol misuse. Keep it safely away from others.
Overdose
Too much causes deep sleepiness, confusion, poor coordination and slowed breathing, which is more dangerous with alcohol or opioids. Seek emergency medical help.
Therapeutic Class
Benzodiazepine (anti-anxiety medicine).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.