Psychiatric medication A to Z
chlorpromazine is a legend in the antipsychotics category. Known scientifically as chlorpromazine hydrochloride, this first-generation phenothiazine was the game-changer that launched modern psychopharmacology back in the 1950s. Whether you know it by its brand names—Thorazine in the US or Largactil in the UK—or its generic form, chlorpromazine remains a go-to for managing psychosis and more.
At its core, chlorpromazine works by blocking dopamine D2 receptors in the brain, taming the chaotic neurotransmitter activity that drives symptoms like hallucinations, delusions, and severe agitation. But it’s not a one-trick pony—its effects on histamine, serotonin, and muscarinic receptors give it a broad reach, from sedation to antiemetic properties. Available in strengths like chlorpromazine 25mg tablets, syrup, or injections, it’s a versatile tool we pharmacists still dispense today, guided by resources like the British National Formulary (BNF).
What Does Chlorpromazine Treat?
Here’s a quick rundown of its uses:
Schizophrenia: Calms acute psychotic episodes and agitation.
Bipolar Mania: Stabilizes extreme mood swings.
Severe Anxiety: Offers short-term relief with its sedative punch (chlorpromazine for anxiety).
Intractable Hiccups: A surprising but effective fix (chlorpromazine for hiccups).
Nausea/Vomiting: A staple in palliative care settings.
While it’s a heavy hitter in the antipsychotics category, chlorpromazine comes with a trade-off: side effects like drowsiness, low blood pressure, and extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) mean it requires careful dosing and monitoring. Start at 25–100mg daily for adults, and we adjust from there—sometimes up to 1000mg in severe cases. It’s not as polished as newer antipsychotics, but its efficacy, affordability, and decades of proven results keep it relevant.
If you’re asking, “What is the brand name for chlorpromazine?” you’re likely curious about this widely used medication. As a pharmacist with deep experience in psychiatric drugs, I can tell you that chlorpromazine—a first-generation antipsychotic—has a few well-known brand names, depending on where you are. Let’s dive into its brand names, generic roots, and uses, … Read more about What Is the Brand Name for Chlorpromazine?
If you’re wondering, “How does chlorpromazine treat schizophrenia?” you’re digging into a cornerstone of psychiatric care. As a pharmacist with years of experience in medications like chlorpromazine—known as Thorazine or Largactil—I can tell you it’s a first-generation antipsychotic that transformed schizophrenia treatment since the 1950s. It targets the brain’s chemistry to ease symptoms like hallucinations … Read more about How Does Chlorpromazine Treat Schizophrenia?
If you’re asking, “What is the antidote for chlorpromazine?” you’re likely concerned about an overdose or adverse reaction to this powerful drug. As a pharmacist with years of experience in psychiatric medications, I’m here to clarify that chlorpromazine—known as Thorazine or Largactil—doesn’t have a specific antidote like some poisons do. Instead, treatment focuses on managing … Read more about What Is the Antidote for Chlorpromazine?
If you’re wondering, “Is chlorpromazine a sedative?” you’re not alone—it’s a common question I hear in the pharmacy. As an expert in psychiatric medications, I can tell you that chlorpromazine—known as Thorazine or Largactil—does have sedative effects, but it’s not classified strictly as a sedative. It’s a first-generation antipsychotic with a broad action profile. Let’s … Read more about Is Chlorpromazine a Sedative?
If you’re asking, “What happens if you overdose on chlorpromazine?” you’re likely seeking clarity on a serious topic. As a pharmacist with extensive experience in psychiatric medications, I’ve seen the importance of understanding chlorpromazine—a first-generation antipsychotic known as Thorazine or Largactil. Overdosing can lead to severe effects, from sedation to life-threatening complications. Let’s explore what … Read more about What Happens If You Overdose on Chlorpromazine?
Wondering, “How long does chlorpromazine last in horses?” As a pharmacist with expertise in medications like chlorpromazine—commonly known as Thorazine or Largactil—I’m here to shed light on its duration in equine use. While it’s a first-generation antipsychotic in humans, chlorpromazine is sometimes used off-label in veterinary medicine, including horses, for sedation or behavioral calming. Its … Read more about How Long Does Chlorpromazine Last in Horses?
If you’re asking, “How long does chlorpromazine take to work?” you’re likely curious about this classic antipsychotic’s timeline—whether for schizophrenia, hiccups, or anxiety. As a pharmacist with years of experience in psychiatric medications, I’ve counseled countless patients on chlorpromazine (known as Thorazine or Largactil), and I’m here to give you a clear answer. The time … Read more about How Long Does Chlorpromazine Take to Work?
As a pharmacist with deep experience in psychiatric medications, I’m glad to explain how chlorpromazine works for schizophrenia in a way that’s clear and grounded in science. Let’s dive into the specifics of its action in this condition. The Basics: Schizophrenia and Dopamine Schizophrenia is a complex mental health disorder characterized by symptoms like hallucinations … Read more about How does Chlorpromazine work for Schizophrenia?
If you’re wondering, “What is chlorpromazine used for?” you’ve come to the right place. As a pharmacist with years of experience in psychiatric medications, I’m here to break it down for you. Chlorpromazine—sometimes known by brand names like Thorazine or Largactil—is a first-generation antipsychotic with a surprising range of uses. Whether it’s calming psychosis or … Read more about What is Chlorpromazine used for?
As a pharmacist with extensive experience in psychiatric medications, I’m happy to explain how chlorpromazine works in a way that’s both detailed and approachable. Let’s break it down. Chlorpromazine, a first-generation antipsychotic in the phenothiazine class, exerts its effects by interacting with multiple neurotransmitter systems in the brain. Its primary mechanism of action is as … Read more about How does Chlorpromazine work?