Chlordiazepoxide

About chlordiazepoxide

Chlordiazepoxide may be taken to relieve anxiety, but only for a short period of time. It can also be used to help relieve the symptoms of alcohol withdrawal. Chlordiazepoxide works by affecting the part of the brain that controls emotion and also by relaxing muscles.

Before taking chlordiazepoxide

Before taking chlordiazepoxide make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have breathing problems.
• If you have myasthenia gravis or any other muscle weakening disease.
• If you have liver or kidney problems.
• If you have mental health problems or depression.
• If you have sleep apnoea syndrome (short periods in your sleep where you stop breathing).
• If you have porphyria (a blood disorder).
• If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.

How to take chlordiazepoxide

• Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
• Your doctor will have told you what dose of chlordiazepoxide to take and when to take it. Take it exactly as you have been directed.
• Chlordiazepoxide is usually taken for short periods of time which may be for a few days or up to four weeks. It is not normally taken for longer periods of time, as this may lead to your feeling dependent on it. If, however, you have already been taking it for longer periods of time, check with your doctor before you stop taking it, as it should be stopped gradually. If it is stopped suddenly you may experience unpleasant withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, tremor and sleeplessness.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Do not drink alcohol while you are taking chlordiazepoxide. Alcohol will increase feelings of drowsiness.
• Keep your regular doctor's appointment so your progress can be monitored.
• If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
• If you buy any medicines, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.

Can chlordiazepoxide cause problems?

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store chlordiazepoxide

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

References

• British National Formulary; 58th Edition (September 2009) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London (link to current BNF).