GENERIC NAME: CHLORAL HYDRATE - ORAL (KLOR-ull HI-drate)
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: This medication is used as a sleeping aid (for insomnia).
HOW TO USE: This is best taken 15 to 30 minutes before bedtime. Take capsules with a full glass of water or juice to prevent stomach upset. Swallow the capsules whole to avoid their bad taste. If using the liquid form, mix it in a glass of water or juice and drink. Use this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming. Also, if used for a longer period of time, do not suddenly stop using this drug without your doctor's approval. When used for extended periods, this medication may not work as well and may require different dosing. Consult your doctor if this medication stops working well.
SIDE EFFECTS: You may experience headache, stomach upset, dizziness or an unpleasant taste in the mouth. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop confusion, nightmares, loss of coordination, fainting or yellowing of the eyes or skin. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, breathing trouble. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, stomach/intestinal ulcers or other gastrointestinal problems, history of alcohol or substance abuse, history of depression, any allergies. This medication is intended to cause drowsiness and sleep. Avoid tasks requiring alertness such as driving. Avoid or limit consumption of alcoholic beverages. Using both at the same time may result in serious adverse effects. Elderly persons are usually more sensitive to the effects of this medication. Use cautiously. Chloral hydrate should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. This medication is excreted into breast milk and may cause sedation (sleepiness) in a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Sleep - Read about how to get a healthy nights sleep, how much sleep is enough, and why skimping on sleep can lead to poor performance, health, and moods.
- Insomnia Treatment: Sleep Aids and Stimulants - Learn about insomina, and insomnia treatment including over-the-counter medicine, herbal supplements, and prescription medication for this condition.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
Sleep RSS