Chlorpromazine Tablets

For the management of manifestations of psychotic disorders. For the treatment of schizophrenia. To control nausea and vomiting. For relief of restlessness and apprehension before surgery. For acute intermittent porphyria. As an adjunct in the treatment of tetanus. To control the manifestations of the manic type of manic-depressive illness. For relief of intractable hiccups. …

• ? ADULTS Adjust dosage to individual and the severity of his condition, recognizing that the milligram for milligram potency relationship among all dosage forms has not been precisely established clinically
• It is important to increase dosage until symptoms are controlled
• Dosage should be increased more gradually in debilitated or emaciated patients
• In continued therapy, gradually reduce dosage to the lowest effective maintenance level, after symptoms have been controlled for a reasonable period
• The 100 mg and 200 mg tablets are for use in severe neuropsychiatric conditions
• Elderly Patients - In general, dosages in the lower range are sufficient for most
• Elderly patients
• Since they appear to be more susceptible to hypotension and neuromuscular reactions, such patients should be observed closely
• Dosage should be tailored to the individual, response carefully monitored, and dosage adjusted accordingly
• Dosage should be increased more gradually in elderly patients
• Psychotic Disorders - Increase dosage gradually until symptoms are controlled
• Maximum improvement may not be seen for weeks or even months
• Continue optimum dosage for 2 weeks; then gradually reduce dosage to the lowest effective maintenance level
• Daily dosage of 200 mg is not unusual

• Do not use in patients with known hypersensitivity to phenothiazines
• Do not use in comatose states or in the presence of large amounts of central nervous system depressants (alcohol, barbiturates, narcotics, etc.)

Increased Mortality in Elderly Patients with Dementia-Related Psychosis Elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis treated with antipsychotic drugs are at an increased risk of death. Chlorpromazine hydrochloride is not approved for the treatment of patients with dementia-related psychosis [see BOXED WARNING] . The extrapyramidal symptoms which can occur secondary to chlorpromazine may be confused with the central nervous system signs of an undiagnosed primary disease responsible for the vomiting, e.g., Reye's syndrome or other encephalopathy. …

Note: Some adverse effects of chlorpromazine may be more likely to occur, or occur with greater intensity, in patients with special medical problems, e.g., patients with mitral insufficiency or pheochromocytoma have experienced severe hypotension following recommended doses. Drowsiness: Usually mild to moderate, may occur, particularly during the first or second week, after which it generally disappears. If troublesome, dosage may be lowered. Jaundice: Overall incidence has been low, regardless of indication or dosage. Most investigators conclude it is a sensitivity reaction. Most cases occur between the second and fourth weeks of therapy. …

[See also ADVERSE REACTIONS ] . Symptoms Primarily symptoms of central nervous system depression to the point of somnolence or coma. Hypotension and extrapyramidal symptoms. Other possible manifestations include agitation and restlessness, convulsions, fever, autonomic reactions such as dry mouth and ileus. EKG changes and cardiac arrhythmias. Treatment It is important to determine other medications taken by the patient since multiple drug therapy is common in overdosage situations. Treatment is essentially symptomatic and supportive. Early gastric lavage is helpful. …

Take it when you remember, unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Then skip the missed one. Never take two doses at once to make up for it. Check your leaflet, as some medicines are different.