CHLORPROMAZINE (THORAZINE)
Source: 3.health-center.com

What are the Uses?: Chlorpromazine, or Thorazine, is a medication that is used to treat: Acute mental disorders

This medication acts on the portion of the brain called the hypothalamus. It affects parts of the hypothalamus that controls metabolism, body temperature, alertness, muscle tone, hormone balance and vomiting. It may be used to treat problems related to any of these functions.

Thorazine is a low potency antipsychotic medication (also called a neuroleptic or major tranquilizer) which is used to alleviate agitation and psychosis, usually in schizophrenia. Antipsychotic medications work by blocking the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain. By changing the flow of dopamine, medications can reverse some of the symptoms of schizophrenia.

Potency is a measure of how much of the drug is needed to effectively treat the symptoms of schizophrenia. If a drug is low potency, more of it is needed to relieve the symptoms of schizophrenia. Low potency antipsychotic medications include:
· Serentil (mesoridazine)
· Thorazine (chlorpromazine)

When Will My Medication Start to Work?: Usually it takes several weeks to feel the effects of Thorazine. It may take longer to experience the full effects of Thorazine, which depends on dosage and varies from person to person.

Any Other Important Information?: If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks of this or any medication with your doctor.

Older adults are more sensitive to Chlorpromazine's effects than younger adults.
Avoid excessive heat when taking Thorazine due to the possible increase in heatstroke. Do not stop this drug suddenly. Thorazine use should be tapered slowly over a two to three week period due to possible serious withdrawal symptoms.

What are the Side Effects?: Remember that only some people will experience side effects--and that no one experiences side effects in exactly the same way. If you experience any side effects, contact your doctor or clinician right away and continue taking your medication.The following list may not contain all of the side effects associated with this medication:

Most common side effect drowsiness
Infrequent side effects raised or lowered blood pressure, abnormal heart rates, heart attack, dizziness
Risks choking (due to suppressed cough reflex), jaundice (yellowing of whites of eyes and skin), Parkinson's-like disorders

Are there any Drug Interactions?: Remember, always follow your physician's recommendations on how to take your medication. Even if you are taking one of the following substances, continue taking your medication as prescribed and consult your physician. Also, if you are taking any herbal remedies, vitamins, and/or over-the-counter medications, be sure to tell your physician. The following section offers some, but not necessarily all, of the possible drug interactions.

Be cautious of taking Thorazine with barbiturates, sleeping pills, narcotics, alcohol, or other tranquilizers, or any other medication that may produce a depressive effect. Aluminum antacids, Cogentin (benztropine), and Artane (trihexyphenidyl), and anticholinergic drugs can reduce the effectiveness of Thorazine and increase the chance of drug side effects. Taking Lithium together with a phenothiazine drug may lead to disorientation, loss of consciousness, or uncontrolled muscle movements. ACE inhibitors taken with Thorazine may cause an excessive lowering of blood pressure. Amphetamines may cause a decreased effect of both drugs. Beta-blockers can intensify the effects of both drugs. Birth control bills may lead to increased Thorazine levels. Propranolol may increase the levels of both drugs. Depakene (valproic acid) may cause toxicity when taken with Thorazine. A riboflavin (vitamin B2) supplement should be taken with Thorazine with long-term use. Vitamin C may blunt therapeutic effects. Caffeine may lessen the calming effect of the drug.


 

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