What is Chlordiazepoxide?
Chlordiazepoxide, commonly referred to as CLOZDIAZEPAXOID(r) is a benzodiazepine medication prescribed to treat anxiety disorders.Chlordiazepoxide can also be used to treat short-term symptoms of withdrawal from alcohol or anxiety that you may experience before undergoing surgery.This medication guide does not list all possible uses of chlordiazepoxide.
Side effects of Chlordiazepoxide
In case of an allergic reaction, seek medical assistance immediately: hives, difficulty breathing or swelling of lips, face or throat.Chlordiazepoxide may slow or stop breathing, particularly if you've recently consumed alcohol or opioid medications. If you are having difficulty waking up, have blue lips, or have slow breathing, someone caring for you may need to seek medical attention.
Chlordiazepoxide can cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Severe sleepiness;
- Slow heartbeat; slow breathing (breathing can stop);
- Memory or concentration problems;
- Unusual changes in mood and behaviour; thoughts about suicide or harming yourself
- Problems with muscle or balance movement
- Confusion, excitement, paranoia, anger, aggression,
- Stomach pain and loss of appetite
Older adults may experience longer lasting fatigue and dizziness than is typical, which could include feelings of drowsiness and dizziness. Avoid falling or sustaining an injury by exercising caution.
Some of the common side effects associated with chlordiazepoxide include:
- Drowsiness;
- Confuse or confuse
- Balance problems
If you experience any of the following symptoms after stopping chlordiazepoxide: abnormal muscle movements, increased activity or talkativeness, sudden and severe mood or behavioural changes, confusion, hallucinations, seizures, or suicidal thoughts,After stopping abruptly, some withdrawal symptoms can last for up to a year or more. You should tell your doctor if your anxiety is persistent, you are experiencing depression or memory or thinking problems, or you have difficulty sleeping.There may be other side effects. Call your physician immediately if experiencing side effects; alternatively, reach out to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 in order to report potential issues.
Similar/related drugs
Duloxetine, escitalopram, alprazolam, Lexapro, Xanax, Cymbalta, and diazepam
Warnings
Chlordiazepoxide may slow or stop breathing, particularly if you've recently taken an opioid or consumed alcohol.Misuse of this medication may result in addiction, overdosage or even death. This medicine should be kept out of the reach of others.You should not stop taking chlordiazepoxide before consulting your doctor. Stopping abruptly could result in potentially life-threatening withdrawal symptoms that last up to one or more years after abrupt discontinuation.Seek medical attention immediately if you experience symptoms like abnormal muscle movements, increased activity or talkativeness, sudden and severe mood or behavioural changes, confusion, hallucinations or seizures, or thoughts of suicide.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to chlordiazepoxide, it is best not to use it.
Inform your physician of any of the following issues:
- Depression is a mental disorder that can lead to suicidal feelings or thoughts.
- Drug abuse or alcoholism?
- Liver or kidney disease
Notify your doctor of any pregnancy or plans to become pregnant. Chlordiazepoxide can harm an unborn child. Do not take chlordiazepoxide in the first trimester.Ask your doctor if you can safely breastfeed while taking this medication.No one under the age of 6 is allowed to use this product.
How to take Chlordiazepoxide?
Read and follow any instructions or guides included with your medication. Use chlordiazepoxide only in the prescribed amount and no longer. If you are feeling a greater urge to take this medication, tell your doctor.Do not share this medication with anyone, particularly if they have an addiction history to drugs.Misuse can cause overdose or death. Store the medicine in a place where others can't get it. It is illegal to sell or give away medicine that contains controlled substances.Chlordiazepoxide should only be taken for no more than four months and always follow your physician's directions.You should not stop taking chlordiazepoxide before consulting your doctor. If you suddenly stop taking the medication after a long period of use, you may experience life-threatening symptoms.Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature. Store your medication in an area where it cannot be misused.
What happens if I miss the dose?
If it is almost time for your next dose, skip any that have already passed without taking another. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once.
What happens if I overdose?
Call the Poison Help Line at 1-800-222-1222 or seek emergency medical care. A chlordiazepoxide overdose can be fatal when taken with alcohol, opioid medicines, or other drugs that cause drowsiness and slow breathing.Overdose symptoms include dry mouth, blurred sight, urinating more, constipation, and extreme drowsiness.
What should be avoided?
Don't drink alcohol. Side effects and death can occur.You should avoid driving or engaging in hazardous activities until you understand how chlordiazepoxide affects you. Dizziness and fatigue may result in accidents or serious injuries.
Interaction with other drug
Do not use chlordiazepoxide in combination with drugs that cause you to sleep or slow down your breathing. This can have dangerous side effects, even death.Chlordiazepoxide can be affected by other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the other medications you take.