Chlorpromazine extended-release capsules

What are chlorpromazine extended-release capsules?

CHLORPROMAZINE (Thorazine Spansule®) has a number of uses in helping to treat emotional, nervous, or mental problems. Chlorpromazine reduces the symptoms of psychotic disorders like schizophrenia. It also can help children with severe behavioral problems. Chlorpromazine is also used for uncontrollable hiccups, control of nausea and vomiting, and relief of restlessness and apprehension before surgery. Chlorpromazine also helps patients with acute intermittent porphyria. Generic chlorpromazine extended-release capsules are not yet available.

NOTE: This drug is discontinued in the United States.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• frequently drink alcoholic beverages

• asthma or other chronic lung disease

• blood disorders or disease

• breast cancer

• difficulty passing urine

• fever

• glaucoma

• head injury

• heart disease or irregular heartbeat

• liver disease

• low blood level of calcium

• Parkinson's disease

• prostate trouble

• recent fever or viral infection, especially in children

• Reye's syndrome

• seizures (convulsions)

• stomach problems or peptic ulcer

• uncontrollable movement disorder

• an unusual or allergic reaction to chlorpromazine, other medicines foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take chlorpromazine capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the capsules whole with a drink of water; do not crush or chew. Take chlorpromazine with food or milk if it upsets your stomach. Do not take with antacids. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Elderly patients over age 65 years may have a stronger reaction to this medicine and may need smaller doses.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Try to take your doses at the same time(s) each day. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with chlorpromazine?

• alcohol

• antacids

• some antibiotics

• antidiarrheal medications

• atropine

• bromocriptine

• cimetidine

• cisapride

• dextroamphetamine or amphetamine

• doxercalciferol

• dronabinol or marijuana

• haloperidol or droperidol

• levodopa

• lithium

• medicines for an over-active thyroid gland

• medicines for colds and flu

• medicines for hay fever and other allergies

• medicines for mental depression

• medicines for movement abnormalities as in Parkinson's disease

• medicines to prevent or treat malaria

• medications for treating seizures (convulsions)

• medicines for pain or for use as muscle relaxants, including tramadol

• medicines to treat urine or bladder incontinence

• metoclopramide

• pimozide

• probucol

• some medications for high blood pressure or heart problems

• some weight loss medications

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking chlorpromazine?

Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Do not stop taking chlorpromazine suddenly; this can cause nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Ask your prescriber or health care professional for advice if you are to stop taking this medicine.

You may get drowsy, dizzy, or have blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how chlorpromazine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can increase possible dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Chlorpromazine can reduce the response of your body to heat or cold. Try not to get overheated. Avoid temperature extremes, such as saunas, hot tubs, or very hot or cold baths or showers. Dress warmly in cold weather.

Chlorpromazine can make your skin more sensitive to sun or ultraviolet light. Keep out of the sun, or wear protective clothing outdoors and use a sunscreen (at least SPF 15). Do not use sun lamps or sun tanning beds or booths. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. Some medications taken with chlorpromazine may increase your sun sensitivity.

Chlorpromazine may make your mouth dry, chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy and drinking plenty of water will help.

Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, sore throat, indigestion, diarrhea, or allergies. Ask your prescriber or health care professional for advice.

If you are going to have surgery or will need a procedure that uses contrast agents, tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking this medicine.

What side effects may I notice from taking chlorpromazine?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:

These following effects require that you contact your health care provider immediately if they occur:

• convulsions (seizures)

• chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat

• difficulty breathing or swallowing or shortness of breath

• fever, chills, sore throat

• hot, dry, pale skin

• painful and prolonged erection (men)

• puffing cheeks, smacking lips, or worm-like movements of the tongue

• severe stiffness of the muscles

• shaking or uncontrolled/unusual movements of the arms, eyes, mouth, legs or tongue

• unusual weakness or tiredness

• unusual bleeding or bruising

Check with your health care provider as soon as possible for the following:

• blurred vision or other changes in vision

• breast enlargement,pain, or discharge in men or women

• confusion

• dark yellow or brown urine

• difficulty passing urine

• fainting spells, falls, or difficulty in balance

• nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

• restlessness

• slurred speech

• stomach area pain

• twitching movements

• yellowing of skin or eyes

Side effects that usually do not require immediate medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

Common:

• constipation

• decreased perspiration or sweating

• dizziness or drowsiness

• dry mouth

• headache

• increased sensitivity to the sun or ultraviolet light

• menstrual changes

• stuffy nose

Less Common:

• sexual difficulties (decreased sexual desire or impotence in men)

• skin discoloration

• weight gain

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Chlorpromazine injection

What is chlorpromazine injection?

CHLORPROMAZINE (Thorazine®) injection has a number of uses. The injection is most commonly used for the treatment of nausea, vomiting, or uncontrollable hiccups, or to reduce anxiety prior to surgical procedures. Chlorpromazine is also used to treat emotional, nervous, or mental problems. Chlorpromazine reduces the symptoms of psychotic disorders. Chlorpromazine injection also may be used for patients with tetanus. The injection may also be used to treat conditions normally treated by chlorpromazine tablets or capsules when a patient is unable to swallow. Generic chlorpromazine injections are available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• frequently drink alcoholic beverages

• asthma or other chronic lung disease

• blood disorders or disease

• breast cancer

• difficulty passing urine

• fever

• glaucoma

• head injury

• heart disease or irregular heartbeat

• liver disease

• low blood level of calcium

• low blood pressure or if you are on medicines to treat high blood pressure

• Parkinson's disease

• prostate trouble

• recent fever or viral infection, especially in children

• Reye's syndrome

• seizures (convulsions)

• stomach problems or peptic ulcer

• uncontrollable movement disorder

• an unusual or allergic reaction to chlorpromazine, other medicines, sulfites, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Chlorpromazine is most commonly administered as an injection into a muscle. Occasionally it may be given into a vein by an infusion. It is usually given by a health-care professional in a hospital, long-term care, or clinic setting. You will be instructed to lie down while receiving this medication and for a short time after the dose is complete. Do not try to sit or stand until your health care professional instructs you to do so.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Elderly patients over age 65 years may have a stronger reaction to this medicine and need smaller doses.

What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply. Chlorpromazine injections are not for self-medication. Your doses will be given as directed by your prescriber by a trained health care professional.

What drug(s) may interact with chlorpromazine?

• alcohol

• antacids

• some antibiotics

• antidiarrheal medications

• atropine

• bromocriptine

• cimetidine

• cisapride

• dextroamphetamine or amphetamine

• doxercalciferol

• dronabinol or marijuana

• haloperidol or droperidol

• levodopa

• lithium

• medicines for an over-active thyroid gland

• medicines for colds and flu

• medicines for hay fever and other allergies

• medicines for mental depression

• medicines for movement abnormalities as in Parkinson's disease

• medicines to prevent or treat malaria

• medications for treating seizures (convulsions)

• medicines for pain or for use as muscle relaxants, including tramadol

• medicines to treat urine or bladder incontinence

• metoclopramide

• pimozide

• probucol

• some medications for high blood pressure or heart problems

• some weight loss medications

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking chlorpromazine injections?

After an injection, you must lie down for at least half an hour. The injections commonly cause lowered blood pressure. Do not try to sit up or stand until your health care professional instructs you to. You may get drowsy, dizzy, or have blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how chlorpromazine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can increase possible dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Do not spill any chlorpromazine injection solution on the skin; it can cause skin irritation or dermatitis.

Chlorpromazine can reduce the response of your body to heat or cold. While you are receiving these injections, try not to get overheated. Avoid temperature extremes, such as saunas, hot tubs, or very hot or cold baths or showers. Dress warmly in cold weather.

Chlorpromazine can make your skin more sensitive to sun or ultraviolet light. Keep out of the sun, or wear protective clothing outdoors and use a sunscreen (at least SPF 15) while you are taking this medication. Do not use sun lamps or sun tanning beds or booths. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. Some medications taken with chlorpromazine may increase your sun sensitivity.

Chlorpromazine injections may make your mouth dry, chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy and drinking plenty of water will help.

If you are to receive chlorpromazine injections regularly, do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, sore throat, indigestion, diarrhea, or allergies. Ask your prescriber or health care professional for advice.

If you are going to have surgery or will need a procedure that uses contrast agents, tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking this medicine.

What side effects may I notice from receiving chlorpromazine?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:

More common with the use of the injection:

• chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat

• confusion, restlessness

• difficulty breathing or swallowing, or shortness of breath

• dizziness or fainting spells

• low blood pressure

• pain, irritation, and inflammation at the injection site

• skin rash, or itching

• unusual weakness or tiredness

Less common with infrequent use of the injection:

• blurred vision

• breast enlargement in men or women

• dark yellow or brown urine

• drooling, shaking, movement difficulty (shuffling walk) or rigidity

• fever, chills, sore throat

• hot, dry skin, unable to sweat

• involuntary or uncontrollable movements of the eyes, mouth, head, arms, and legs

• menstrual changes

• puffing cheeks, smacking lips, or worm-like movements of the tongue

• seizures (convulsions)

• slurred speech

• stomach area pain

• sweating

• unusual bleeding or bruising

• yellowing of skin or eyes

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

Common:

• constipation

• difficulty passing urine

• difficulty sleeping, agitation or restlessness

• drowsiness

• dry mouth

• increased sensitivity to the sun or ultraviolet light

Less common:

• headache

• sexual difficulties (decreased sexual desire or impotence in men)

• stuffy nose

• weight gain

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F); do not freeze. Protect the injection from light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Chlorpromazine oral concentrate or syrup

What is chlorpromazine oral concentrate or syrup?

CHLORPROMAZINE (Thorazine®, Thorazine Concentrate®, Thor-Prom®) has a number of uses in helping to treat emotional, nervous, or mental problems. Chlorpromazine reduces the symptoms of psychotic disorders like schizophrenia. It also can help children with severe behavioral problems. Chlorpromazine is also used for uncontrollable hiccups, control of nausea and vomiting, and relief of restlessness and apprehension before surgery. Chlorpromazine also helps patients with acute intermittent porphyria. Generic chlorpromazine oral concentrate and syrup are available.

NOTE: This drug is discontinued in the United States.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• frequently drink alcoholic beverages

• asthma or other chronic lung disease

• blood disorders or disease

• breast cancer

• difficulty passing urine

• fever

• glaucoma

• head injury

• heart disease or irregular heartbeat

• liver disease

• low blood level of calcium

• Parkinson's disease

• prostate trouble

• recent fever or viral infection, especially in children

• Reye's syndrome

• seizures (convulsions)

• stomach problems or peptic ulcer

• uncontrollable movement disorder

• an unusual or allergic reaction to chlorpromazine, other medicines foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take chlorpromazine oral concentrate or syrup by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Use a specially marked dropper or spoon to measure your medicine. Ask your pharmacist if you do not have one; household spoons are not always accurate. Do not take this medicine with antacids. Do not mix the syrup or the concentrate with other liquid medications. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

If you are taking the chlorpromazine oral concentrate, measure it carefully and dilute just before use in at least 2 ounces or more of either coffee, tea, milk, tomato or fruit juice, carbonated drink, water, soup, applesauce, or pudding. Take the entire portion of beverage or food to ensure that the full dose is given.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Elderly patients over age 65 years may have a stronger reaction to this medicine and may need smaller doses.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Try to take your doses at the same time(s) each day. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with chlorpromazine?

• alcohol

• antacids

• some antibiotics

• antidiarrheal medications

• atropine

• bromocriptine

• cimetidine

• cisapride

• dextroamphetamine or amphetamine

• doxercalciferol

• dronabinol or marijuana

• haloperidol or droperidol

• levodopa

• lithium

• medicines for an over-active thyroid gland

• medicines for colds and flu

• medicines for hay fever and other allergies

• medicines for mental depression

• medicines for movement abnormalities as in Parkinson's disease

• medicines to prevent or treat malaria

• medications for treating seizures (convulsions)

• medicines for pain or for use as muscle relaxants, including tramadol

• medicines to treat urine or bladder incontinence

• metoclopramide

• pimozide

• probucol

• some medications for high blood pressure or heart problems

• some weight loss medications

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking chlorpromazine?

Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Do not stop taking chlorpromazine suddenly; this can cause nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Ask your prescriber or health care professional for advice if you are to stop taking this medicine.

Do not spill any chlorpromazine concentrate or syrup on the skin, it can cause skin irritation or dermatitis.

You may get drowsy, dizzy, or have blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how chlorpromazine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can increase possible dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Chlorpromazine can reduce the response of your body to heat or cold. Try not to get overheated. Avoid temperature extremes, such as saunas, hot tubs, or very hot or cold baths or showers. Dress warmly in cold weather.

Chlorpromazine can make your skin more sensitive to sun or ultraviolet light. Keep out of the sun, or wear protective clothing outdoors and use a sunscreen (at least SPF 15). Do not use sun lamps or sun tanning beds or booths. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. Some medications taken with chlorpromazine may increase your sun sensitivity.

Chlorpromazine may make your mouth dry, chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy and drinking plenty of water will help.

Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, sore throat, indigestion, diarrhea, or allergies. Ask your prescriber or health care professional for advice.

If you are going to have surgery or will need a procedure that uses contrast agents, tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking this medicine.

What side effects may I notice from taking chlorpromazine?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:

These following effects require that you contact your health care provider immediately if they occur:

• convulsions (seizures)

• chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat

• difficulty breathing or swallowing or shortness of breath

• fever, chills, sore throat

• hot, dry, pale skin

• painful and prolonged erection (men)

• puffing cheeks, smacking lips, or worm-like movements of the tongue

• severe stiffness of the muscles

• shaking or uncontrolled/unusual movements of the arms, eyes, mouth, legs or tongue

• unusual weakness or tiredness

• unusual bleeding or bruising

Check with your health care provider as soon as possible for the following:

• blurred vision or other changes in vision

• breast enlargement,pain, or discharge in men or women

• confusion

• dark yellow or brown urine

• difficulty passing urine

• fainting spells, falls, or difficulty in balance

• nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

• restlessness

• slurred speech

• stomach area pain

• twitching movements

• yellowing of skin or eyes

Side effects that usually do not require immediate medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

Common:

• constipation

• decreased perspiration or sweating

• dizziness or drowsiness

• dry mouth

• headache

• increased sensitivity to the sun or ultraviolet light

• menstrual changes

• stuffy nose

Less Common:

• sexual difficulties (decreased sexual desire or impotence in men)

• skin discoloration

• weight gain

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F); do not freeze. Protect the concentrate from light; keep chlorpromazine liquids in the original amber bottle dispensed to you by your pharmacy. Keep the container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Chlorpromazine suppositories

What are chlorpromazine suppositories?

CHLORPROMAZINE (Thorazine®) has a number of uses, including the treatment of emotional, nervous, or mental problems. Chlorpromazine suppositories are useful for the relief of nausea and vomiting, but they may also be used for treating other conditions. Generic chlorpromazine suppositories are not yet available.

NOTE: This drug is discontinued in the United States.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• frequently drink alcoholic beverages

• asthma or other chronic lung disease

• blood disorders or disease

• breast cancer

• difficulty passing urine

• fever

• glaucoma

• head injury

• heart disease or irregular heartbeat

• liver disease

• low blood level of calcium

• low blood pressure or if you are on medicines to treat high blood pressure

• Parkinson's disease

• prostate trouble

• recent fever or viral infection, especially in children

• Reye's syndrome

• seizures (convulsions)

• stomach problems or peptic ulcer

• uncontrollable movement disorder

• an unusual or allergic reaction to chlorpromazine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

How should I use this medicine?

Chlorpromazine suppositories are put into the rectum (. Do not take by mouth. Wash your hands before inserting. Take off the foil wrapping. If the suppository is too soft to easily insert, then place it in the refrigerator for 15—30 minutes, then use as follows: Wet the tip of the suppository with water to make it easier to use. Lie on your side and raise your knee to your chest. Using your finger, gently push the suppository completely into the rectum. Hold it in place for a few minutes. Wash your hands after placing the suppository. Do not use your medicine more often than directed.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Elderly patients over age 65 years may have a stronger reaction to this medicine and may need smaller doses.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with chlorpromazine?

• alcohol

• antacids

• some antibiotics

• antidiarrheal medications

• atropine

• bromocriptine

• cimetidine

• cisapride

• dextroamphetamine or amphetamine

• doxercalciferol

• dronabinol or marijuana

• haloperidol or droperidol

• levodopa

• lithium

• medicines for an over-active thyroid gland

• medicines for colds and flu

• medicines for hay fever and other allergies

• medicines for mental depression

• medicines for movement abnormalities as in Parkinson's disease

• medicines to prevent or treat malaria

• medications for treating seizures (convulsions)

• medicines for pain or for use as muscle relaxants, including tramadol

• medicines to treat urine or bladder incontinence

• metoclopramide

• pimozide

• probucol

• some medications for high blood pressure or heart problems

• some weight loss medications

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking chlorpromazine?

Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Do not stop using chlorpromazine suddenly. Ask your prescriber or health care professional for advice if you are to stop using this medicine.

You may get drowsy, dizzy, or have blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how chlorpromazine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can increase possible dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Chlorpromazine can reduce the response of your body to heat or cold. Try not to get overheated. Avoid temperature extremes, such as saunas, hot tubs, or very hot or cold baths or showers. Dress warmly in cold weather.

Chlorpromazine can make your skin more sensitive to sun or ultraviolet light. Keep out of the sun, or wear protective clothing outdoors and use a sunscreen (at least SPF 15) while you are taking this medication. Do not use sun lamps or sun tanning beds or booths. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. Some medications taken with chlorpromazine may increase your sun sensitivity.

Chlorpromazine may make your mouth dry, chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy and drinking plenty of water will help.

Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, sore throat, indigestion, diarrhea, or allergies. Ask your prescriber or health care professional for advice.

If you are going to have surgery or will need a procedure that uses contrast agents, tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking this medicine.

What side effects may I notice from using chlorpromazine?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:

These following effects require that you contact your health care provider immediately if they occur:

• convulsions (seizures)

• chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat

• difficulty breathing or swallowing or shortness of breath

• fever, chills, sore throat

• hot, dry, pale skin

• painful and prolonged erection (men)

• puffing cheeks, smacking lips, or worm-like movements of the tongue

• severe stiffness of the muscles

• shaking or uncontrolled/unusual movements of the arms, eyes, mouth, legs or tongue

• unusual weakness or tiredness

• unusual bleeding or bruising

Check with your health care provider as soon as possible for the following:

• blurred vision or other changes in vision

• breast enlargement,pain, or discharge in men or women

• confusion

• dark yellow or brown urine

• difficulty passing urine

• fainting spells, falls, or difficulty in balance

• nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

• restlessness

• slurred speech

• stomach area pain

• twitching movements

• yellowing of skin or eyes

Side effects that usually do not require immediate medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

Common:

• constipation

• decreased perspiration or sweating

• dizziness or drowsiness

• dry mouth

• headache

• increased sensitivity to the sun or ultraviolet light

• menstrual changes

• stuffy nose

Less Common:

• sexual difficulties (decreased sexual desire or impotence in men)

• skin discoloration

• weight gain

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F); do not freeze. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

Chlorpromazine tablets

What are chlorpromazine tablets?

CHLORPROMAZINE (Thorazine®, Thor-Prom®) has a number of uses in helping to treat emotional, nervous, or mental problems. Chlorpromazine reduces the symptoms of psychotic disorders like schizophrenia. It also can help children with severe behavioral problems. Chlorpromazine is also used for uncontrollable hiccups, control of nausea and vomiting, and relief of restlessness and apprehension before surgery. Chlorpromazine also helps patients with acute intermittent porphyria. Generic chlorpromazine tablets are available.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• frequently drink alcoholic beverages

• asthma or other chronic lung disease

• blood disorders or disease

• breast cancer

• difficulty passing urine

• fever

• glaucoma

• head injury

• heart disease or irregular heartbeat

• liver disease

• low blood level of calcium

• Parkinson's disease

• prostate trouble

• recent fever or viral infection, especially in children

• Reye's syndrome

• seizures (convulsions)

• stomach problems or peptic ulcer

• uncontrollable movement disorder

• an unusual or allergic reaction to chlorpromazine, other medicines foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

How should I take this medicine?

Take chlorpromazine tablets by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets with a drink of water. Take chlorpromazine with food or milk if it upsets your stomach. Do not take with antacids. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Elderly patients over age 65 years may have a stronger reaction to this medicine and may need smaller doses.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Try to take your doses at the same time(s) each day. Do not take double or extra doses.

What drug(s) may interact with chlorpromazine?

• alcohol

• antacids

• some antibiotics

• antidiarrheal medications

• atropine

• bromocriptine

• cimetidine

• cisapride

• dextroamphetamine or amphetamine

• doxercalciferol

• dronabinol or marijuana

• haloperidol or droperidol

• levodopa

• lithium

• medicines for an over-active thyroid gland

• medicines for colds and flu

• medicines for hay fever and other allergies

• medicines for mental depression

• medicines for movement abnormalities as in Parkinson's disease

• medicines to prevent or treat malaria

• medications for treating seizures (convulsions)

• medicines for pain or for use as muscle relaxants, including tramadol

• medicines to treat urine or bladder incontinence

• metoclopramide

• pimozide

• probucol

• some medications for high blood pressure or heart problems

• some weight loss medications

Tell your prescriber or health care professional about all other medicines you are taking, including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke, or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check with your health care professional before stopping or starting any of your medicines.

What should I watch for while taking chlorpromazine?

Visit your prescriber or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Do not stop taking chlorpromazine suddenly; this can cause nausea, vomiting, and dizziness. Ask your prescriber or health care professional for advice if you are to stop taking this medicine.

You may get drowsy, dizzy, or have blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how chlorpromazine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can increase possible dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Chlorpromazine can reduce the response of your body to heat or cold. Try not to get overheated. Avoid temperature extremes, such as saunas, hot tubs, or very hot or cold baths or showers. Dress warmly in cold weather.

Chlorpromazine can make your skin more sensitive to sun or ultraviolet light. Keep out of the sun, or wear protective clothing outdoors and use a sunscreen (at least SPF 15). Do not use sun lamps or sun tanning beds or booths. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. Some medications taken with chlorpromazine may increase your sun sensitivity.

Chlorpromazine may make your mouth dry, chewing sugarless gum or sucking hard candy and drinking plenty of water will help.

Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, sore throat, indigestion, diarrhea, or allergies. Ask your prescriber or health care professional for advice.

If you are going to have surgery or will need a procedure that uses contrast agents, tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking this medicine.

What side effects may I notice from taking chlorpromazine?

Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:

These following effects require that you contact your health care provider immediately if they occur:

• convulsions (seizures)

• chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat

• difficulty breathing or swallowing or shortness of breath

• fever, chills, sore throat

• hot, dry, pale skin

• painful and prolonged erection (men)

• puffing cheeks, smacking lips, or worm-like movements of the tongue

• severe stiffness of the muscles

• shaking or uncontrolled/unusual movements of the arms, eyes, mouth, legs or tongue

• unusual weakness or tiredness

• unusual bleeding or bruising

Check with your health care provider as soon as possible for the following:

• blurred vision or other changes in vision

• breast enlargement,pain, or discharge in men or women

• confusion

• dark yellow or brown urine

• difficulty passing urine

• fainting spells, falls, or difficulty in balance

• nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

• restlessness

• slurred speech

• stomach area pain

• twitching movements

• yellowing of skin or eyes

Side effects that usually do not require immediate medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

Common:

• constipation

• decreased perspiration or sweating

• dizziness or drowsiness

• dry mouth

• headache

• increased sensitivity to the sun or ultraviolet light

• menstrual changes

• stuffy nose

Less Common:

• sexual difficulties (decreased sexual desire or impotence in men)

• skin discoloration

• weight gain

Where can I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.