Chlordiazepoxide (HCl)
Chlordiazepoxide is a 1,4-benzodiazipine. A substituent in the 7th position such as halogen or a nitro group is required for its sedative, and hypnotic activity. Benzdiazipines are the most widely used anxiolytic drugs. The benzodiazipines are more effective and safer. They have largely replaced barbiturates and meprobamates in the treatment of anxiety.
Primary Characteristics
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Benzodiazepines.
It belongs to Chloride Channel Potentiater (GABA operated) pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action and also classified in Benzodiazepine pharmacological group. It is also classified under Psychotherapeutic Drugs .
Molecular Weight: 336.2 · pKa: 4.6 · Solubility in Water: 1 in 10 · Solubility in Alcohol: 1 in 40 · Non-proprietary name: Chlordiazepoxide (HCl) · pH: 2.7 · Isotonic value: 5.5.

Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Chlordiazepoxide (HCl) has an oral bioavailability is 97% (±2%), pre-systemic (first-pass) metabolism accounts for 2.5% (±2.5%).
Distribution: Chlordiazepoxide (HCl) has a volume of distribution is 0.22-0.75 l/kg. plasma protein binding is 92-96%.
Elimination: it is metabolised via extensive by liver, plasma half-life is 15 hr, renal excretion is partial.
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Indications
Chlordiazepoxide (HCl) is primarily indicated in conditions like Acute alcohol withdrawal, Adjunct in acute alcohol withdrawal, Adjunt in acute alcohol withdrawal, Anxiety, Insomnia, Muscular spasm, Premedication in anaesthesia, Psychosomatic disorders, Suppression of transplant rejection.
Chlordiazepoxide (HCl) is also indicated for secondary conditions like Alcohol withdrawal.
Contraindications
Chlordiazepoxide (HCl) is contraindicated in conditions like Depression, Pulmonary insufficiency, Respiratory depression.
Dosage
Chlordiazepoxide (HCl)'s dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 20 mg | 20 mg | — | For Muscle spasms.The dose is given daily in divided doses | |
| 62.5 mg | 62.5 mg | — | For acute symptoms of alcohol withdrawl.Maximum dose is 300 mg daily | |
| 75 mg | 75 mg | — | For premedication before anaesthesia given 1 hr before surgery | |
| 75 mg | 75 mg | — | IV or IM | For severe symptoms of alcohol withdrawl. this dose is given initially ,if necessary repeat dose after 2-4 hr |
| 20 mg | 20 mg | — | PO | For insomnia given before bedtime |
| 52.5 mg | 52.5 mg | Every 8h | PO | Frequency may be increased upto 4 times/day if needed. |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 5 mg | 5 mg | Every 12h | ||
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 0 – 0 | — | — | Not recommended in this age group | |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Chlordiazepoxide (HCl) in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Psychological impairment , Cerebral atrophy , Psychomotor performance impairment.
Chlordiazepoxide (HCl) produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Hemolytic anemia, Hypoplastic Anemia . Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Chlordiazepoxide (HCl) are Confusion , Sedation , Ataxia, Drowsiness, Coma.
Chlordiazepoxide (HCl) is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Aggression, Dependence , Skin reactions.
Warnings / Precautions
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.24.3 — Drugs used in anxiety and sleep disorders