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Chlorpromazine

This form:

Pronounced

"klor-PRO-muh-zeen"

Common brand names:

Largactil

Uses

This medication is used to treat certain mental/mood disorders (such as schizophrenia, psychotic disorders, manic phase of bipolar disorder, severe behavioral problems in children). Chlorpromazine belongs to a class of drugs known as antipsychotics. It works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain.

Chlorpromazine is also used to control nausea/vomiting, relieve prolonged hiccups, relieve restlessness/anxiety before surgery, and help treat tetanus.

How to Use This Medication

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually 2 to 4 times daily.

The dosage is based on your medical condition, age, and response to treatment. Children's dosage is also based on weight. To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start this medication at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.

If you are using the liquid concentrate form of this medication, carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose. Mix the prescribed dose in 2 ounces (60 milliliters) or more of liquid or soft foods as directed. Some examples of recommended liquids and soft foods to use for mixing include: tomato or fruit juice, milk, simple syrup, coffee, tea, soda, water, soup, or pudding.

Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.

Although you may notice some medication effects soon after starting, for some conditions, it may take several weeks before you get the full benefit of this drug.

Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Also, you may experience symptoms such as upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and shakiness. To prevent these symptoms while you are stopping treatment with this drug, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Report any new or worsening symptoms right away.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens.

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Drug information is selected from data included with permission and copyrighted by First DataBank, Inc. This is a summary and does not contain all possible information about this product. For complete information about this product or your specific health needs, ask your healthcare professional. Always seek the advice of your healthcare professional if you have any questions about this product or your medical condition. This information is not intended as individual medical advice and does not substitute for the knowledge and judgment of your healthcare professional. This information does not contain any assurances that this product is safe, effective or appropriate for you.

This information is intended only for residents of the United States. Products sold under the same brand names in other countries may contain different ingredients.

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Information expires December 2025.