ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses chlordiazepoxide, a neuropsychotropic drug. It presents the approved indications of the drug for neuropsychological disorders, usual dosage and administration, available dosage forms, storage, and compatibility, and the mechanism of action. Information on relative contraindications, clinically significant drug interactions, adverse drug reactions, and overdosage is also provided. Sold under the trade names Librium® and Novo-Poxide®, chlordiazepoxide pharmacotherapy is indicated for the prophylactic and symptomatic management of seizures associated with the acute alcohol withdrawal syndrome. The exact mechanism of chlordiazepoxide’s actions has not been fully determined. However, they appear to be mediated by the actions of the inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA. Chlordiazepoxide pharmacotherapy has been associated several adverse drug reactions such as fainting (syncope), confusion, drowsiness, and extrapyramidal reactions. Signs and symptoms of chlordiazepoxide overdosage include confusion, diminished reflexes, drowsiness, incoordination (ataxia), and coma.
