Chlorpromazine

Chlorpromazine is a medication that can be used to treat a number of conditions, including schizophrenia, acute intermittent porphyria, and severe behavior problems in children. It is a type of typical antipsychotic that works by affecting a certain chemical in the brain. Chlorpromazine, which is available by prescription, comes in tablet form and is typically taken one to six times a day. Side effects of chlorpromazine can include nausea, drowsiness, a dry mouth, and unusual body or facial movements.

 

What Is Chlorpromazine?

Part of a class of drugs known as "typical antipsychotics," chlorpromazine hydrochloride (Thorazine®) is a prescription medicine that has been licensed for the treatment of:
 
  • Schizophrenia
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Restlessness and worry before surgery
  • Acute intermittent porphyria (to help relieve nausea and vomiting associated with this condition)
  • Tetanus (in combination with other medications)
  • Mania symptoms in people with bipolar disorder (also known as manic depression)
  • Hiccups that will not go away
  • Severe behavior problems in children
  • Severe attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children (for short-term use only).
     

Who Makes Chlorpromazine?

Chlorpromazine was originally manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline. Although brand-name chlorpromazine is no longer being made, generic chlorpromazine is still available. Generic chlorpromazine is made by several different companies.
 
(Click What Is Chlorpromazine Used For? for more information on chlorpromazine uses, including possible off-label uses.)
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;