Chlorpromazine belongs to classes of medications called phenothiazines and typical antipsychotics. It can suppress a chemical in the brain to control nausea/vomiting and psychiatric disorders. It is used for many indications, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, nausea/vomiting, intractable hiccups, and behavioural problems in children.
Chlorpromazine is taken orally as tablets. Listed below are the indications and the dosages.
Schizophrenia:
25-200 mg/day in 2-4 divided doses, and may increase dose based on response and tolerability in 20-50 mg increments every ≥3 days up to 800 mg/day in 2-4 divided doses.
Nausea and vomiting:
25 mg every 4-8 hours as needed, up to 150 mg/day.
Bipolar disorder (manic episode):
25 mg three times daily, and may increase dose based on response and tolerability in 20-50 mg increments every ≥3 days up to 400 mg/day.
Intractable hiccups:
25-50 mg three to four times daily.
Severe behavior problems (acute agitation) in patients 6months – 12years:
0.55 mg/kg every 4-6 hours as needed. In more severe cases, a dose of 50-100 mg/day may be needed. In older children or adolescents, a dose of 200 mg/day or higher may be required.
Common side effects of Chlorpromazine include dry mouth, constipation, blurred vision, weight gain, orthostatic hypotension, tremor, akathisia, or somnolence.
Common dosing schedule:
Chlorpromazine can be taken with or without food. However, you may take it with food if you experience an upset stomach.
This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.
Some common medications Chlorpromazine may interact with:
Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.
In Hong Kong, Chlorpromazine is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.
For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk
Need more information?
For detailed information about the use of Chlorpromazine in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.
Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.
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