Chlorpromazine

Definition

Chlorpromazine is an antipsychotic medication primarily used to treat schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It also has applications in managing nausea, vomiting, and intractable hiccups.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chlorpromazine can cause weight gain and changes in appetite, which are crucial factors for nutritional management.
2. The medication can lead to dry mouth, necessitating increased fluid intake and potential dietary adjustments.
3. Long-term use may result in tardive dyskinesia, a condition involving involuntary muscle movements, impacting nutritional intake.
4. Patients on chlorpromazine should avoid alcohol as it can exacerbate the drug's side effects and interfere with its efficacy.
5. It is metabolized in the liver; thus, patients with liver impairment may need dosage adjustments.

Review Questions

• What are the primary medical uses of chlorpromazine?
• How does chlorpromazine impact a patient's nutritional needs?
• Why should patients on chlorpromazine avoid alcohol?

Related terms

Antipsychotic: Medications used to manage psychosis including delusions, hallucinations, paranoia or disordered thought.

Tardive Dyskinesia: A serious side effect of antipsychotics causing repetitive involuntary movements.

Bipolar Disorder: A mental health condition characterized by extreme mood swings including emotional highs (mania) and lows (depression).