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Chlorpromazine
INFORMATION ABOUT CHLORPROMAZINE
Chlorpromazine Uses
Chlorpromazine is used in the treatment of schizophrenia.
How Chlorpromazine works
Chlorpromazine is a typical antipsychotic. It works by blocking the action of dopamine, a chemical messenger in the brain that affects thoughts and mood.
Common side effects of Chlorpromazine
Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them
Common
Weight gain, Dryness in mouth, Sleepiness, Constipation, Extrapyramidal symptoms, Sedation
CONTENT DETAILS
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Written By
Dr. Swati Mishra
BDS
Reviewed By
Dr. Rajeev Sharma
MBA, MBBS
Last updated
10 Jun 2025 | 04:52 PM (UTC)
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Medicine brands for Chlorpromazine
Expert advice for Chlorpromazine
- Take it at night to avoid feeling sleepy during the day.
- Do not drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how Chlorpromazine affects you.
- To lower the chance of feeling dizzy or passing out, rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down.
- Do not drink alcohol while taking Chlorpromazine as it can cause serious breathing problems.
- Inform your doctor if you notice involuntary muscle movements.
- Monitor your weight during the treatment as Chlorpromazine can cause weight gain.
- Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without talking to your doctor.
Frequently asked questions for Chlorpromazine
Chlorpromazine is not a benzodiazepine. It belongs to a class of medicines called phenothiazine antipsychotics. Chlorpromazine should not be used as a sleeping tablet
It is used in patients with schizophrenia but it relieves anxiety too at certain levels
No. Chlorpromazine is not a controlled substance/ narcotic. However, it can be purchased only after producing a doctor's prescription
Yes, Chlorpromazine may cause weight gain and sleepiness
Chlorpromazine does not have high addictive potential and a very little propensity for abuse for euphoria
Chlorpromazine is dopamine receptor blocker so it decreases dopamine levels to calm the patients with schizophrenia
It has been observed that Chlorpromazine helps in certain cases of opiate withdrawal. However, it is not widely used for this purpose. Please follow your doctor's advice regarding its use.