Thorazine

The active ingredient in Thorazine is chlorpromazine. It belongs to a class of medicines called first-generation antipsychotic medications. This medication also has an antiemetic effect. It works by balancing the level of dopamine in your brain, a substance that helps regulate mood.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Thorazine. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Thorazine:

• Take this medication exactly as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Adult starting dosage: 12.5 to 25 mg every 4 to 6 hours.

The most common side effects of Thorazine include:

• Constipation.
• Dizziness.
• Nausea.
• Drowsiness.
• Dry mouth.
• Weight gain.
• Sexual dysfunction.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Thorazine. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Severe allergic reactions - skin rash, itching, hives, swelling.
• Parkinson-like symptoms.
• Uncontrolled movements (tardive dyskinesia) - muscle stiffness, tremors, loss of balance, restlessness, shuffling walk, which may be signs of extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS).
• Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS) - high fever, stiff muscles, increased sweating, irregular heartbeat.
• Blood disorders - agranulocytosis, low neutrophil levels, low white blood cell levels, sore throat.
• High prolactin level.
• Low blood pressure when standing (orthostatic hypotension) - dizziness, feeling lightheaded, blurred vision.
• Liver/hepatic injury - jaundice, right upper belly pain.

These are not all of the possible side effects of chlorpromazine. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Thorazine, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have:

• Adrenal gland tumor.
• Breathing problems.
• Blocked bowels.
• Brain tumor.
• Breast cancer.
• Glaucoma.
• Heart, liver, or kidney problems.
• Low blood cell levels.
• Low blood pressure.
• Seizures.
• History of neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS).
• History of alcohol misuse.
• Planned surgery.
• Sulfite sensitivity.

Boxed Warning

• Increased mortality in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis.

• Previous hypersensitivity/allergic reaction to phenothiazine or chlorpromazine.
• Psychosis related to dementia.

How long it will take for Thorazine to start working will depend on what you are using it for. For nausea and vomiting, it may only take a few hours, but for psychotic disorders, it may take weeks to months to see the full effects.

When Thorazine is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Alcohol.
• Atropine.
• Thiazide diuretic (hydrochlorothiazide) for fluid retention.
• Propranolol.
• Phenytoin.
• Epinephrine.
• Lithium.
• Warfarin.
• General anesthetics.
• Barbiturates - (phenobarbital, butalbital).
• Medications that cause dizziness and sleepiness (prescription pain medicines, sleep medicines, medicines for anxiety).
• Anticholinergic medications, including antihistamines and medicines commonly used for overactive bladder, Parkinson’s disease, or stomach problems.
• Antidepressants.
• Medications for stomach problems.
• Medications that prolong the QT interval (abnormal heart rhythm).

Thorazine is available in a variety of dosage forms, including:

• Oral tablets - 10 mg, 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 200 mg.
• Oral concentrate - 30 mg/mL, 100 mg/mL.

Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of reach of children.

Teva is the pharmaceutical company that manufactures Thorazine.

There are lower-cost generics available for the brand-name Thorazine.

Do not stop or adjust your use of this medication without first consulting your healthcare provider, since suddenly stopping this medication may cause withdrawal symptoms or worsening psychotic symptoms to occur.

If your unborn baby is exposed to antipsychotic drugs during the 3rd trimester of pregnancy, they are at risk for EPS or withdrawal symptoms after delivery. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Thorazine is known to pass into breast milk. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.