Librium

Generic name: Chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride

What is Librium?

Librium is used to treat anxiety disorders. It is also prescribed for short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety, symptoms of withdrawal in acute alcoholism, and anxiety and apprehension before surgery.

What is the most important information I should know about Librium?

Librium has the potential to cause dependence.

You could experience withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking Librium abruptly. Do not discontinue the drug or change your dose without your doctor's approval.

Who should not take Librium?

Do not use Librium if you are allergic to any of its ingredients.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Librium?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Librium. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney or liver disease, porphyria (a rare metabolic disorder), or suffer from depression or have suicidal thoughts.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Mild to Moderate Anxiety

Adults: The usual dose is 5 or 10 milligrams (mg) taken 3-4 times a day.

Children 6 years and older: The usual dose is 5 mg taken 2-4 times a day. Some children may need to take 10 mg, 2-3 times a day.

The drug is not recommended for children under 6 years of age.

Severe Anxiety

Adults: The usual dose is 20 or 25 mg taken 3-4 times a day.

Apprehension and Anxiety before Surgery

Adults: On days before surgery, the usual dose is 5-10 mg taken 3-4 times a day.

Withdrawal Symptoms of Acute Alcoholism

Adults: The injectable form is usually used initially. Following this is the oral medication starting at doses from 50-100 mg, to be followed by repeated doses as needed up to 300 mg per day. The doctor will repeat this dose, up to a maximum of 300 mg per day, until agitation is controlled. The dose will then be reduced as much as possible.

In elderly patients, your doctor may limit the dose to the smallest effective amount in order to avoid over-sedation or lack of coordination. The usual dose is 5 mg taken 2-4 times per day.

How should I take Librium?

Take Librium exactly as prescribed.

What should I avoid while taking Librium?

Librium may cause you to become drowsy or less alert. Do not drive or operate dangerous machinery or participate in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness until you know how you react to Librium.

Avoid alcohol while taking Librium as it may increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by Librium.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Librium?

If Librium is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Librium with the following: antacids, antidepressant drugs known as MAO inhibitors, including phenelzine and tranylcypromine, antihistamines, antipsychotic drugs such as chlorpromazine and trifluoperazine, antiseizure drugs such as carbamazepine and phenytoin, barbiturates, blood-thinners, cimetidine, disulfiram, levodopa, muscle relaxants such as cyclobenzaprine, narcotic pain relievers, tranquilizers and sedatives such as alprazolam, diazepam, midazolam, and triazolam.

What are the possible side effects of Librium?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: confusion, constipation, drowsiness, fainting, increased or decreased sex drive, liver problems, lack of muscle coordination, minor menstrual irregularities, nausea, skin rash or eruptions, swelling due to fluid retention, yellow eyes and skin

Side effects due to rapid decrease or abrupt withdrawal from Librium may include: abdominal and muscle cramps, convulsions, exaggerated feeling of depression, sleeplessness, sweating, tremors, vomiting

Can I receive Librium if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Do not take Librium if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. There may be an increased risk of birth defects. Do not breastfeed while you are taking Librium.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Librium?

Take it as soon as you remember if it is within an hour or of your scheduled time. If you do not remember until later, skip the dose you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

How should I store Librium?

Store at room temperature away from heat, light, and moisture.