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WARNING: RISKS FROM CONCOMITANT USE WITH OPIOIDS; ABUSE, MISUSE, AND ADDICTION; and DEPENDENCE AND WITHDRAWAL REACTIONS

  • • Concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs for patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Follow patients for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation (see WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS).
  • • The use of benzodiazepines, including chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride capsules, exposes users to risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction, which can lead to overdose or death. Abuse and misuse of benzodiazepines commonly involve concomitant use of other medications, alcohol, and/or illicit substances, which is associated with an increased frequency of serious adverse outcomes. Before prescribing chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride capsules and throughout treatment, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction (see WARNINGS).
  • • The continued use of benzodiazepines, including chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride capsules, may lead to clinically significant physical dependence. The risk of dependence and withdrawal increase with longer treatment duration and higher daily dose. Abrupt discontinuation or rapid dosage reduction of chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride capsules after continued use may precipitate acute withdrawal reactions, which can be life-threatening. To reduce the risk of withdrawal reactions, use a gradual taper to discontinue chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride capsules or reduce the dosage (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION and WARNINGS).

Description


Chlordiazepoxide Hydrochloride, is the prototype for the benzodiazepine compounds. It is a versatile therapeutic agent of proven value for the relief of anxiety. Chlordiazepoxide Hydrochloride is among the safer of the effective psychopharmacologic compounds available, as demonstrated by extensive clinical evidence.

Chlordiazepoxide Hydrochloride is available as capsules containing 5 mg, 10 mg or 25 mg chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride. Each capsule also contains corn starch, lactose and talc. Gelatin capsule shells may contain methyl and propyl parabens and potassium sorbate, with the following dye systems: 5-mg capsules – FD&C Yellow No. 6 plus D&C Yellow No. 10 and either FD&C Blue No. 1 or FD&C Green No. 3. 10-mg capsules – D&C Yellow No. 10 and either FD&C Blue No. 1 plus FD&C Red No. 3 or FD&C Green No. 3 plus FD&C Red No. 40. 25-mg capsules– D&C Yellow No. 10 and either FD&C Green No. 3 or FD&C Blue No. 1.

Chlordiazepoxide Hydrochloride is 7-chloro-2-(methylamino)-5-phenyl-3H-1,4-benzodiazepine 4-oxide hydrochloride. A white to practically white crystalline substance, it is soluble in water. It is unstable in solution and the powder must be protected from light. The molecular weight is 336.22. The structural formula of chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride is as follows:

Clinical Pharmacology


Chlordiazepoxide Hydrochloride has antianxiety, sedative, appetite-stimulating and weak analgesic actions. The precise mechanism of action is not known. The drug blocks EEG arousal from stimulation of the brain stem reticular formation. It takes several hours for peak blood levels to be reached and the half-life of the drug is between 24 and 48 hours. After the drug is discontinued plasma levels decline slowly over a period of several days. Chlordiazepoxide is excreted in the urine, with 1% to 2% unchanged and 3% to 6% as conjugate.

Animal Pharmacology


The drug has been studied extensively in many species of animals and these studies are suggestive of action on the limbic system of the brain, which recent evidence indicates is involved in emotional responses.

Hostile monkeys were made tame by oral drug doses which did not cause sedation. Chlordiazepoxide Hydrochloride revealed a “taming” action with the elimination of fear and aggression. The taming effect of chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride was further demonstrated in rats made vicious by lesions in the septal area of the brain. The drug dosage which effectively blocked the vicious reaction was well below the dose which caused sedation in these animals.

The LD50 of parenterally administered chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride was determined in mice (72 hours) and rats (5 days), and calculated according to the method of Miller and Tainter, with the following results: mice, IV, 123±12mg/kg; mice, IM, 366±7mg/kg; rats, IV, 120±7 mg/kg; rats, IM, >160 mg/kg.

Effects on Reproduction


Reproduction studies in rats fed 10, 20 and 80 mg/kg daily and bred through one or two matings showed no congenital anomalies, nor were there adverse effects on lactation of the dams or growth of the newborn. However, in another study at 100 mg/kg daily there was noted a significant decrease in the fertilization rate and a marked decrease in the viability and body weight of offspring which may be attributable to sedative activity, thus resulting in lack of interest in mating and lessened maternal nursing and care of the young. One neonate in each of the first and second matings in the rat reproduction study at the 100 mg/kg dose exhibited major skeletal defects. Further studies are in progress to determine the significance of these findings.

Indications And Usage


Chlordiazepoxide Hydrochloride Capsules are indicated for the management of anxiety disorders or for the short term relief of symptoms of anxiety, withdrawal symptoms of acute alcoholism, and preoperative apprehension and anxiety. Anxiety or tension associated with the stress of everyday life usually does not require treatment with an anxiolytic.

The effectiveness of chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride capsules in long-term use, that is, more than 4 months, has not been assessed by systematic clinical studies. The physician should periodically reassess the usefulness of the drug for the individual patient.

Contraindications


Chlordiazepoxide Hydrochloride Capsules are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug.

Warnings


Risks from Concomitant Use with Opioids: Concomitant use of benzodiazepines, including chlordiazepoxide, and opioids may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Because of these risks, reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs for patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate.

Observational studies have demonstrated that concomitant use of opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines increases the risk of drug-related mortality compared to use of opioids alone. If a decision is made to prescribe chlordiazepoxide concomitantly with opioids, prescribe the lowest effective dosages and minimum durations of concomitant use, and follow patients closely for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. In patients already receiving an opioid analgesic, prescribe a lower initial dose of chlordiazepoxide than indicated in the absence of an opioid and titrate based on clinical response. If an opioid is initiated in a patient already taking chlordiazepoxide, prescribe a lower initial dose of the opioid and titrate based upon clinical response.

Advise both patients and caregivers about the risks of respiratory depression and sedation when chlordiazepoxide is used with opioids. Advise patients not to drive or operate heavy machinery until the effects of concomitant use with the opioid have been determined [see Drug Interactions].

Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction: The use of benzodiazepines, including, chlordiazepoxide, exposes users to the risks of abuse, misuse, and addiction, which can lead to overdose or death. Abuse and misuse of benzodiazepines often (but not always) involve the use of doses greater than the maximum recommended dosage and commonly involve concomitant use of other medications, alcohol, and/or illicit substances, which is associated with an increased frequency of serious adverse outcomes, including respiratory depression, overdose, or death (see DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE: Abuse).

Before prescribing chlordiazepoxide and throughout treatment, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction (e.g., using a standardized screening tool). Use of chlordiazepoxide. particularly in patients at elevated risk, necessitates counseling about the risks and proper use of chlordiazepoxide along with monitoring for signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse, and addiction. Prescribe the lowest effective dosage; avoid or minimize concomitant use of CNS depressants and other substances associated with abuse, misuse, and addiction (e.g., opioid analgesics, stimulants); and advise patients on the proper disposal of unused drug. If a substance use disorder is suspected, evaluate the patient and institute (or refer them for) early treatment, as appropriate.

Dependence and Withdrawal Reactions: To reduce the risk of withdrawal reactions, use a gradual taper to discontinue chlordiazepoxide or reduce the dosage (a patient-specific plan should be used to taper the dose) (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: Discontinuation or Dosage Reduction of Chlordiazepoxide).

Patients at an increased risk of withdrawal adverse reactions after benzodiazepine discontinuation or rapid dosage reduction include those who take higher dosages and those who have had longer durations of use.

Acute Withdrawal Reactions

The continued use of benzodiazepines, including chlordiazepoxide, may lead to clinically significant physical dependence. Abrupt discontinuation or rapid dosage reduction of chlordiazepoxide after continued use, or administration of flumazenil (a benzodiazepine antagonist) may precipitate acute withdrawal reactions, which can be life-threatening (e.g., seizures) (see DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE: Dependence).

Protracted Withdrawal Syndrome

In some cases, benzodiazepine users have developed a protracted withdrawal syndrome with withdrawal symptoms lasting weeks to more than 12 months (see DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE: Dependence).

Chlordiazepoxide Hydrochloride may impair the mental and/or physical abilities required for the performance of potentially hazardous tasks such as driving a vehicle or operating machinery. Similarly, it may impair mental alertness in children. The concomitant use of alcohol or other central nervous system depressants may have an additive effect. PATIENTS SHOULD BE WARNED ACCORDINGLY.

Usage in Pregnancy: An increased risk of congenital malformations associated with the use of minor tranquilizers (chlordiazepoxide, diazepam and meprobamate) during the first trimester of pregnancy has been suggested in several studies. Because use of these drugs is rarely a matter of urgency, their use during this period should almost always be avoided. The possibility that a woman of childbearing potential may be pregnant at the time of institution of therapy should be considered. Patients should be advised that if they become pregnant during therapy or intend to become pregnant they should communicate with their physicians about the desirability of discontinuing the drug.

Precautions


In elderly and debilitated patients, it is recommended that the dosage be limited to the smallest effective amount to preclude the development of ataxia or oversedation (10 mg or less per day initially, to be increased gradually as needed and tolerated). In general, the concomitant administration of chlordiazepoxide and other psychotropic agents is not recommended. If such combination therapy seems indicated, careful consideration should be given to the pharmacology of the agents to be employed - particularly when the known potentiating compounds such as MAO inhibitors and phenothiazines are to be used. The usual precautions in treating patients with impaired renal or hepatic function should be observed.

Paradoxical reactions, e.g., exclient, stimulation and acute rage, have been reported in psychiatric patients and in hyperactive aggressive pediatric patients, and should be watched for during chlordiazepoxide therapy. The usual precautions are indicated when chlordiazepoxide is used in the treatment of anxiety states where there is any evidence of impending depression; it should be borne in mind that suicidal tendencies may be present and protective measures may be necessary. Although clinical studies have not established a cause and effect relationship, physicians should be aware that variable effects on blood coagulation have been reported very rarely in patients receiving oral anticoagulants and chlordiazepoxide. In view of isolated reports associating chlordiazepoxide with exacerbation of porphyria, caution should be exercised in prescribing chlordiazepoxide to patients suffering from this disease.

Risks from Concomitant Use with Opioids


Advise both patients and caregivers about the risk of potentially fatal respiratory depression and sedation when chlordiazepoxide is used with opioids and not to use such drugs concomitantly unless supervised by a healthcare provider. Advise patients not to drive or operate heavy machinery until the effects of concomitant use with the opioid have been determined (see WARNINGS: Risks from Concomitant Use with Opioids and PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions).

Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction


Inform patients that the use of chlordiazepoxide, even at recommended dosages, exposes users to risks of abuse, misuse, and addiction, which can lead to overdose and death, especially when used in combination with other medications (e.g., opioid analgesics), alcohol, and/or illicit substances. Inform patients about the signs and symptoms of benzodiazepine abuse, misuse, and addiction; to seek medical help if they develop these signs and/or symptoms; and on the proper disposal of unused drug (see WARNINGS:

Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction and DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE).

Withdrawal Reactions


Inform patients that the continued use of chlordiazepoxide may lead to clinically significant physical dependence and that abrupt discontinuation or rapid dosage reduction of chlordiazepoxide may precipitate acute withdrawal reactions, which can be life-threatening. Inform patients that in some cases, patients taking benzodiazepines have developed a protracted withdrawal syndrome with withdrawal symptoms lasting weeks to more than 12 months. Instruct patients that discontinuation or dosage reduction of chlordiazepoxide may require a slow taper (see WARNINGS: Dependence and Withdrawal Reactions and DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE).

Pediatric Use


Because of the varied response of pediatric patients to CNS-acting drugs, therapy should be initiated with the lowest dose and increased as required (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION ). Since clinical experience with chlordiazepoxide in pediatric patients under 6 years of age is limited, use in this age group is not recommended. Hyperactive aggressive pediatric patients should be monitored for paradoxical reactions to chlordiazepoxide (see PRECAUTIONS ).

Information for Patients


Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide).


Advise both patients and caregivers about the risk of potentially fatal respiratory depression and sedation when chlordiazepoxide is used with opioids and not to use such drugs concomitantly unless supervised by a healthcare provider. Advise patients not to drive or operate heavy machinery until the effects of concomitant use with the opioid have been determined (see WARNINGS: Risks from Concomitant Use with Opioids and PRECAUTIONS: Drug Interactions).


Inform patients that the use of chlordiazepoxide, even at recommended dosages, exposes users to risks of abuse, misuse, and addiction, which can lead to overdose and death, especially when used in combination with other medications (e.g., opioid analgesics), alcohol, and/or illicit substances. Inform patients about the signs and symptoms of benzodiazepine abuse, misuse, and addiction; to seek medical help if they develop these signs and/or symptoms; and on the proper disposal of unused drug (see WARNINGS:

Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction and DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE).


Inform patients that the continued use of chlordiazepoxide may lead to clinically significant physical dependence and that abrupt discontinuation or rapid dosage reduction of chlordiazepoxide may precipitate acute withdrawal reactions, which can be life-threatening. Inform patients that in some cases, patients taking benzodiazepines have developed a protracted withdrawal syndrome with withdrawal symptoms lasting weeks to more than 12 months. Instruct patients that discontinuation or dosage reduction of chlordiazepoxide may require a slow taper (see WARNINGS: Dependence and Withdrawal Reactions and DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE).


The concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids increases the risk of respiratory depression because of actions at different receptor sites in the CNS that control respiration. Benzodiazepines interact at GABAA sites and opioids interact primarily at mu receptors. When benzodiazepines and opioids are combined, the potential for benzodiazepines to significantly worsen opioid-related respiratory depression exists.

Limit dosage and duration of concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids, and monitor patients closely for respiratory depression and sedation.

Adverse Reactions


The necessity of discontinuing therapy because of undesirable effects has been rare. Drowsiness, ataxia and confusion have been reported in some patients - particularly the elderly and debilitated. While these effects can be avoided in almost all instances by proper dosage adjustment, they have occasionally been observed at the lower dosage ranges. In a few instances syncope has been reported.

Other adverse reactions reported during therapy include isolated instances of skin eruptions, edema, minor menstrual irregularities, nausea and constipation, extrapyramidal symptoms, as well as increased and decreased libido. Such side effects have been infrequent, and are generally controlled with reduction of dosage. Changes in EEG patterns (low-voltage fast activity) have been observed in patients during and after chlordiazepoxide treatment.

Blood dyscrasias (including agranulocytosis), jaundice and hepatic dysfunction have occasionally been reported during therapy. When chlordiazepoxide treatment is protracted, periodic blood counts and liver function tests are advisable.

Drug Abuse And Dependence


Controlled Substance

Chlordiazepoxide is a Schedule IV controlled substance.

Abuse


Chlordiazepoxide is a benzodiazepine and a CNS depressant with a potential for abuse and addiction. Abuse is the intentional, non-therapeutic use of a drug, even once, for its desirable psychological or physiological effects. Misuse is the intentional use, for therapeutic purposes, of a drug by an individual in a way other than prescribed by a healthcare provider or for whom it was not prescribed. Drug addiction is a cluster of behavioral, cognitive, and physiological phenomena that may include a strong desire to take the drug, difficulties in controlling drug use (e.g., continuing drug use despite harmful consequences, giving a higher priority to drug use than other activities and obligations), and possible tolerance or physical dependence. Even taking benzodiazepines as prescribed may put patients at risk for abuse and misuse of their medications. Abuse and misuse may lead to addiction.

Abuse and misuse of benzodiazepines often (but not always) involve the use of doses greater than the maximum recommended dosage and commonly involve concomitant use of other medications, alcohol, and/or illicit substances, which is associated with an increased frequency of serious adverse outcomes, including respiratory depression, overdose, or death. Benzodiazepines are often sought by individuals who abuse drugs and other substances, and by individuals with addictive disorders (see WARNINGS: Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction).

The following adverse reactions have occurred with benzodiazepine abuse and/or misuse: abdominal pain, amnesia, anorexia, anxiety, aggression, ataxia, blurred vision, confusion, depression, disinhibition, disorientation, dizziness, euphoria, impaired concentration and memory, indigestion, irritability, muscle pain, slurred speech, tremors, and vertigo.

The following severe adverse reactions have occurred with benzodiazepine abuse and/or misuse: delirium, paranoia, suicidal ideation and behavior, seizures, coma, breathing difficulty, and death. Death is more often associated with polysubstance use (especially benzodiazepines with other CNS depressants such as opioids and alcohol).

Dependence


Physical Dependence

Chlordiazepoxide may produce physical dependence from continued therapy. Physical dependence is a state that develops as a result of physiological adaptation in response to repeated drug use, manifested by withdrawal signs and symptoms after abrupt discontinuation or a significant dose reduction of a drug. Abrupt discontinuation or rapid dosage reduction of benzodiazepines or administration of flumazenil, a benzodiazepine antagonist, may precipitate acute withdrawal reactions, including seizures, which can be life-threatening. Patients at an increased risk of withdrawal adverse reactions after benzodiazepine discontinuation of rapid dosage reduction include those who take higher dosages (i.e., higher and/or more frequent doses) and those who have had longer durations of use (see WARNINGS: Dependence and Withdrawal Reactions).

To reduce the risk of withdrawal reactions, use a gradual taper to discontinue chlordiazepoxide or reduce the dosage (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION: Discontinuation or Dosage Reduction of Chlordiazepoxide and WARNINGS: Dependence and Withdrawal Reactions).
  •   Acute Withdrawal Signs and Symptoms
  •  Acute withdrawal signs and symptoms associated with benzodiazepines have included abnormal involuntary movements, anxiety, blurred vision, depersonalization, depression, derealization, dizziness, fatigue, gastrointestinal adverse reactions (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, decreased appetite), headache, hyperacusis, hypertension, irritability, insomnia, memory impairment, muscle pain and stiffness, panic attacks, photophobia, restlessness, tachycardia, and tremor. More severe acute withdrawal signs and symptoms, including life-threatening reactions, have included catatonia, convulsions, delirium tremens, depression, hallucinations, mania, psychosis, seizure, and suicidality.
  •   Protracted Withdrawal Syndrome
  •  Protracted withdrawal syndrome associated with benzodiazepines is characterized by anxiety, cognitive impairment, depression, insomnia, formication, motor symptoms (e.g., weakness, tremor, muscle twitches), paresthesia, and tinnitus that persists beyond 4 to 6 weeks after initial benzodiazepine withdrawal. Protracted withdrawal symptoms may last weeks to more than 12 months. As a result, there may be difficulty in differentiating withdrawal symptoms from potential re-emergence or continuation of symptoms for which the benzodiazepine was being used.

Tolerance

Tolerance to chlordiazepoxide may develop from continued therapy. Tolerance is a physiological state characterized by a reduced response to a drug after repeated administration (i.e., a higher dose of a drug is required to produce the same effect that was once obtained at a lower dose.) Tolerance to the therapeutic effects of chlordiazepoxide may develop; however, little tolerance develops to the amnestic reactions and other cognitive impairments caused by benzodiazepines.

Dosage And Administration


Because of the wide range of clinical indications for chlordiazepoxide, the optimum dosage varies with the diagnosis and response of the individual patient. The dosage, therefore, should be individualized for maximum beneficial effects.

ADULTS

USUAL DAILY DOSE

Relief of Mild and Moderate Anxiety Disorders and Symptoms of Anxiety

5 mg or 10 mg, 3 or 4 times daily

Relief of Severe Anxiety Disorders and Symptoms of Anxiety

20 mg or 25 mg, 3 or 4 times daily

Geriatric Patients, or in the presence of debilitating disease

5 mg, 2 to 4 times daily

Preoperative Apprehension and Anxiety: On days preceding surgery, 5 to 10 mg orally, 3 or 4 times daily. If used as preoperative medication, 50 to 100 mg IM* 1 hour prior to surgery.

PEDIATRIC PATIENTS

USUAL DAILY DOSE

Because of the varied response of pediatric patients to CNS-acting drugs, therapy should be initiated with the lowest dose and increased as required. Since clinical experience in pediatric patients under 6 years of age is limited, the use of the drug in this age group is not recommended.

5 mg, 2 to 4 times daily (may be increased in some pediatric patients to 10 mg, 2 to 3 times daily)

For the relief of withdrawal symptoms of acute alcoholism, the parenteral form* is usually used initially. If the drug is administered orally, the suggested initial dose is 50 to 100 mg, to be followed by repeated doses as needed until agitation is controlled - up to 300 mg per day. Dosage should then be reduced to maintenance levels.

*See package insert for Injectable Chlordiazepoxide Hydrochloride

Management of Overdose


Manifestations of chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride overdosage include somnolence, confusion, coma and diminished reflexes. Respiration, pulse and blood pressure should be monitored, as in all cases of drug overdosage, although, in general, these effects have been minimal following chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride overdosage. General supportive measures should be employed, along with immediate gastric lavage. Intravenous fluids should be administered and an adequate airway maintained. Hypotension may be combated by the use of Levophed® (norepinephrine) or Aramine (metaraminol). Dialysis is of limited value. There have been occasional reports of excitation in patients following chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride overdosage; if this occurs barbiturates should not be used. As with the management of intentional overdosage with any drug, it should be borne in mind that multiple agents may have been ingested.

Flumazenil, a specific benzodiazepine-receptor antagonist, is indicated for the complete or partial reversal of the sedative effects of benzodiazepines and may be used in situations when an overdose with a benzodiazepine is known or suspected. Prior to the administration of flumazenil, necessary measures should be instituted to secure airway, ventilation and intravenous access. Flumazenil is intended as an adjunct to, not as a substitute for, proper management of benzodiazepine overdose. Patients treated with flumazenil should be monitored for re-sedation, respiratory depression and other residual benzodiazepine effects for an appropriate period after treatment. The prescriber should be aware of a risk of seizure in association with flumazenil treatment, particularly in long-term benzodiazepine users and in cyclic antidepressant overdose. The complete flumazenil package insert, including CONTRAINDICATIONS,WARNINGS and PRECAUTIONS, should be consulted prior to use.

Discontinuation or Dosage Reduction of Chlordiazepoxide


To reduce the risk of withdrawal reactions, use a gradual taper to discontinue chlordiazepoxide or reduce the dosage. If a patient develops withdrawal reactions, consider pausing the taper or increase the dosage to the previous tapered dosage level. Subsequently decrease the dosage more slowly (see WARNINGS: Dependence and Withdrawal Reactions and DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE: Dependence).

How Supplied


Chlordiazepoxide Hydrochloride Capsules, USP are available in the following presentations:

5 mg hard gelatin capsules in bottles of 100 (NDC 43547-251-10), with S251 imprinted on the opaque green cap and Solco’s logo "S" imprinted on the opaque yellow body.

10 mg hard gelatin capsules in bottles of 100 (NDC 43547-252-10), with S252 imprinted on the opaque black cap and Solco’s logo "S" imprinted on the opaque green body.

25 mg hard gelatin capsules in bottles of 100 (NDC 43547-253-10), with S253 imprinted on the opaque green cap and Solco’s logo "S" imprinted on the opaque white body.

Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F).

Manufactured by: Epic Pharma, LLCLaurelton, NY 11413

Distributed by: Solco Healthcare U.S., LLC Cranbury, NJ 08512

Rev. 01/2021p/n

Medication Guide


Chlordiazepoxide Hydrochloride

(klor″ dye az″ e pox′ ide hye″droe klor′ ide) Capsules USP, C-IV What is the most important information I should know about chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride?
  • • Chlordiazepoxide Hydrochloride is a benzodiazepine medicine. Taking benzodiazepines with opioid medicines, alcohol, or other central nervous system depressants (CNS) (including street drugs) can cause severe drowsiness, breathing problems (respiratory depression), coma and death. Get emergency help right away if any of the following happens:
    • •shallow or slowed breathing
    • •breathing stops (which may lead to the heart stopping)
    • •excessive sleepiness (sedation)
  •  Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how taking chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride with opioids affects you.
  • • Risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction. There is a risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction with benzodiazepines, including chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride, which can lead to overdose and serious side effects including coma and death.
    • •Serious side effects including coma and death have happened in people who have abused or misused benzodiazepines, including chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride.These serious side effects may also include delirium, paranoia, suicidal thoughts or actions, seizures, and difficulty breathing. Call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away if you get any of these serious side effects.
    • • You can develop an addiction even if you take chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
    • • Take chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride exactly as your healthcare provider prescribed.
    • •Do not share your chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride with other people.
    • •Keep chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride in a safe place and away from children.
  • • Physical dependence and withdrawal reactions. Chlordiazepoxide Hydrochloride can cause physical dependence and withdrawal reactions, especially if you continue to take chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride for several days to several weeks.
    • • Do not suddenly stop taking chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride. Stopping chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride suddenly can cause serious and life-threatening side effects, including unusual movements, responses, or expressions, seizures, sudden and severe mental or nervous system changes, depression, seeing or hearing things that others do not see or hear an extreme increase in activity or talking, losing touch with reality, and suicidal thoughts or actions. Call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away if you get any of these symptoms.
    • • Some people who suddenly stop benzodiazepines have symptoms that can last for several weeks to more than 12 months, including, anxiety, trouble remembering, learning, or concentrating, depression, problems sleeping, feeling like insects are crawling under your skin, weakness, shaking, muscle twitching, burning or prickling feeling in your hands, arms, legs or feet, and ringing in your ears.
    • •Physical dependence is not the same as drug addiction. Your healthcare provider can tell you more about the difference between physical dependence and drug addiction
    • •. Do not take more chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride than prescribed or take chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride for longer than prescribed.

What is chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride?
  • •Chlordiazepoxide Hydrochloride is a prescription medicine used:
    • •to treat anxiety disorders
    • •for the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety
    • •to treat withdrawal symptoms of acute alcoholism
    • •preoperatively to treat apprehension and anxiety
  • • Chlordiazepoxide Hydrochloride is a federal controlled substance (C-IV) because it contains chlordiazepoxide that can be abused or lead to dependence. Keep chlordiazepoxide in a safe place to prevent misuse and abuse. Selling or giving away chlordiazepoxide may harm others, and is against the law. Tell your healthcare provider if you have abused or been dependent on alcohol, prescription medicines or street drugs.
  • •It is not known if chlordiazepoxide is safe and effective in children under 6 years of age.
  • •It is not known if chlordiazepoxide is safe and effective for use for longer than 4 months.

Before you take chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:
  • •have or have had depression, mood problems, or suicidal thoughts or behavior
  • •have a history of drug or alcohol abuse or addiction
  • •have liver or kidney problems
  • •are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Chlordiazepoxide may harm your unborn baby. You and your healthcare provider should decide if you should take chlordiazepoxide while you are pregnant
  • •are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Chlordiazepoxide may pass into your breast milk and may harm your baby. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby if you take chlordiazepoxide
  •   Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
  •  Taking chlordiazepoxide with certain other medicines can cause side effects or affect how well chlordiazepoxide or the other medicines work.
  •  Ask your healthcare provider if you are not sure if you are taking any of these medicines. Your healthcare provider can tell you if it is safe to take chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride with your other medicines.
  •  Do not start or stop any other medicines during treatment with chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride without talking to your healthcare provider first. Stopping chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride suddenly may cause you to have serious side effects. See, “What are the possible side effects of chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride?”
  •  Know the medicines you take. Keep a ul of them to show to your healthcare provider and pharmacist when you get a new medicine.

How should I take chlordiazepoxide?
  • •Take chlordiazepoxide exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it.
  • •If you take too much chlordiazepoxide, call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away.
See “What is the most important information I should know about chlordiazepoxide?”
  • Chlordiazepoxide Hydrochloride can make you sleepy or dizzy and can slow your thinking and motor skills.
    Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know how chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride affects you.
  • Do not drink alcohol or take other drugs that may make you sleepy or dizzy while taking chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride without first talking to your healthcare provider. When taken with alcohol or drugs that cause sleepiness or dizziness, chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride may make your sleepiness or dizziness much worse.
    The most common side effects of chlordiazepoxide include:

    These are not all the possible side effects of chlordiazepoxide. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

    How should I store chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride?
    Store chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
  • Keep chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride in a tightly closed container and out of the light.
    Keep chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride and all medicines out of the reach of children.

    General information about the safe and effective use of chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride.

    Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those uled in a Medication Guide. Do not use chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride that is written for health professionals.

    What are the ingredients in chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride?

    Active ingredient: chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride

    Inactive ingredients: FD&C Yellow No. 6 plus D&C Yellow No. 10 and either FD&C Blue No. 1 or FD&C Green No. 3, D&C Yellow No. 10 and either FD&C Blue No. 1 plus FD&C Red No. 3 or FD&C Green No. 3 plus FD&C Red No. 40, D&C Yellow No. 10 and either FD&C Green No. 3 or FD&C Blue No. 1 (10-mg only), FD&C yellow #6 (10-mg only), gelatin, hydrogenated vegetable oil, lactose anhydrous, methylparaben, microcrystalline cellulose, propylparaben, silicon dioxide, sodium lauryl sulfate and titanium dioxide

    Manufactured by:

    Epic Pharma, LLC

    Laurelton, NY 11413

    Distributed by: Solco Healthcare U.S., LLC Cranbury, NJ 08512

    This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Issued: 01/2021

    What are the possible side effects of chlordiazepoxide?

    Chlordiazepoxide may cause serious side effects, including:
    • • • • • •

    Principal Display Panel - 5 Mg


    NDC 43547-251-10 – Image not available

    Principal Display Panel - 10 Mg


    NDC 43547-252-10 – Image not available       

    Principal Display Panel - 25 Mg


    NDC 43547-253-10 – Image not available       

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