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chlorpromazine spansules-oral, Thorazine

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GENERIC NAME: CHLORPROMAZINE SPANSULES - ORAL (klor-PRO-muh-zeen)

BRAND NAME(S): Thorazine

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: Chlorpromazine is used for certain types of mental or emotional conditions. It is also used to control hiccups, reduce anxiety and treat nausea and vomiting.

HOW TO USE: Take with food or milk if stomach upset occurs, unless directed otherwise by your doctor. These sustained-release capsules must be swallowed whole. Crushing or chewing them will destroy the long action and can increase side effects. Do not suddenly stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. In the treatment of mental or emotional conditions, it may take up to two weeks for full effects of this medication to be noticed.

SIDE EFFECTS: Constipation, drowsiness, vision changes or dry mouth may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Unlikely to occur but report promptly: restlessness, muscle stiffness, weakness, difficulty speaking, loss of balance, mask- like facial expression, trembling or shaking, dizziness, lip smacking or other uncontrollable movements, difficulty urinating, skin rash/discoloration. Very unlikely to occur but report promptly: sore throat, unusual bleeding or bruising, stomach pain, yellowing of eyes or skin, dark urine, hot dry skin, vomiting. Though very unlikely to occur, notify your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following effects: severe muscle stiffness, confusion, fever, seizures, irregular/fast heartbeat, increased sweating, prolonged/painful erection. In the unlikely event you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially: very high or very low blood pressure, liver or heart disease, Reye's syndrome, alcohol or drug dependencies, nervous system problems, blood disorders, any allergies (especially any drug allergies). Use caution performing tasks that require alertness, such as driving or using machinery. Use of alcohol can cause extreme drowsiness. Avoid alcohol consumption. This medication may increase sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged sun exposure and wear a sunscreen and protective clothing when you are exposed to the sun. This medication can reduce sweating making you more susceptible to heat stroke. Avoid strenuous work or exercise in hot weather. The manufacturer of this drug does not recommend its use during pregnancy. However, it may be used in certain cases. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Chlorpromazine is excreted into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on 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. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.