Chlordiazepoxide Description

Generic Name: CHLORDIAZEPOXIDE

Pronunciation: (klor dye az e pox' ide)

Trade Name(s): Cloxide, Equilibrium, Librium, Libritabs, Reposans-10, Sereen

Why it is prescribed: Chlordiazepoxide is used on a short-term basis to relieve anxiety, including anxiety before surgery and to control agitation caused by alcohol withdrawal.

When it is to be taken: Chlordiazepoxide usually is taken one to four times a day for anxiety. Follow the instructions on your prescription label carefully. Do not take chlordiazepoxide for anxiety for more than four months without consulting your doctor.

How it should be taken: Chlordiazepoxide comes in the form of capsules and tablets. Your prescription label tells you how much to take at each dose.

Special Instruction:
1. Chlordiazepoxide can decrease alertness and coordination. Do not drive a car or operate dangerous machinery until you know how this drug affects you.
2. Because chlordiazepoxide can be habit-forming, do not take more of it, do not take it more often, and do not take it for a longer time than as directed.
3. Do not stop taking this drug without consulting your doctor, especially if you have been taking it for a long time. Stopping the drug abruptly can cause increased anxiety and withdrawal symptoms.
4. Your doctor probably will want to decrease your dose gradually. Keep all appointments with your doctor.
5. Your dose may need to be adjusted occasionally, and you may have blood tests periodically.

Side Effects:
1. Drowsiness, fatigue, weakness, dizziness, confusion, faintness. If these effects persist for more than a few days, contact your doctor.
2. Talkativeness, restlessness, excitement, trembling, muscle spasms, sleeping problems, nightmares. Stop taking the drug and contact your doctor immediately.

Other Precautions:
1. Women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should inform their doctors. If you become pregnant while taking chlordiazepoxide, contact your doctor immediately.
2. If you have a pregnancy test, tell the laboratory personnel that you are taking chlordiazepoxide because the drug can cause false results.
3. Before you take this drug, tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription drugs you are taking, including cimetidine, digoxin, disulfiram, levodopa, seizure medication, sleeping pills, prescription pain medication, medication for depression, barbiturates, tranquilizers, sedatives, antihistamines, and medication for allergies and colds.
4. Do not drink alcoholic beverages while taking chlordiazepoxide. Alcohol adds to the drowsiness and dizziness caused by this drug.
5. Do not smoke while taking chlordiazepoxide. Smoking can decrease its effectiveness.
6. If you have liver or kidney disease, tell your doctor before you take this drug. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

Storage Conditions: Keep this medication in the container it came in and out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from light.