Chlordiazepoxide (25mg)

Chlordiazepoxide (25mg) — Uses and Benefits

Chlordiazepoxide is used to treat anxiety disorders and to manage symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Short-term relief of anxiety and tension
• Managing symptoms of acute alcohol withdrawal such as tremors and agitation
• Sometimes used before surgery to reduce anxiety, as directed by the doctor
• Occasionally used for muscle relaxation in certain conditions

HOW IT WORKS

• It enhances the effect of a calming brain chemical called GABA
• This slows down excess nerve activity in the brain
• The result is reduced anxiety, calmness, and relaxation of muscles

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not a treatment for depression
• Not meant for long-term daily stress management
• Not a painkiller
• Not to be used for everyday sleeplessness without medical advice
• Not a substitute for counselling or de-addiction therapy in alcohol dependence

How to Use Chlordiazepoxide (25mg)

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually with water
• Can be taken with or without food, unless your doctor advises otherwise
• Do not increase the dose or take it more often than prescribed
• Do not stop suddenly without asking your doctor, as this may cause withdrawal symptoms
• Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine
• Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, tell your doctor

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from heat and direct sunlight
• Keep away from moisture, such as bathrooms
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Chlordiazepoxide (25mg) — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Drowsiness or sleepiness
• Tiredness or weakness
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Confusion, especially in elderly patients
• Headache
• Nausea or upset stomach
• Blurred vision
• Slurred speech

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe allergic reaction with swelling of face, lips, or throat
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe confusion, hallucinations, or unusual behaviour
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (signs of liver problems)
• Signs of dependence or withdrawal such as severe anxiety, tremors, or seizures on stopping suddenly

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Chlordiazepoxide (25mg) — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should only be used under medical supervision.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to chlordiazepoxide or other benzodiazepines
• Have severe breathing problems or sleep apnoea
• Have myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakness condition)
• Have severe liver disease
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding, unless specifically advised by your doctor

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have a history of alcohol or drug dependence
• Have depression or a history of mental illness
• Have kidney or liver problems
• Are elderly, as you may be more sensitive to its effects
• Have a history of seizures

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other sedatives, sleeping pills, or anti-anxiety medicines
• Strong painkillers such as opioids
• Antidepressants and antipsychotic medicines
• Antihistamines that cause drowsiness
• Alcohol

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Is this medicine habit-forming?

Yes, it can cause dependence if used for a long time, so it should only be used for the duration your doctor prescribes.

Can I drive after taking this medicine?

No, it can cause drowsiness and slow reactions, so avoid driving or using machinery until you know how it affects you.

Can I stop taking it suddenly?

• No, stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms, so your doctor will guide you on tapering the dose gradually.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.