Thorazine

Definition

Thorazine, also known as chlorpromazine, is a first-generation antipsychotic medication primarily used to treat schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders. It works by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain to reduce symptoms such as delusions and hallucinations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Thorazine was the first antipsychotic drug introduced in the 1950s.
2. It can cause extrapyramidal side effects (EPS) such as tardive dyskinesia and parkinsonism.
3. Thorazine is also used to treat severe nausea and vomiting, intractable hiccups, and acute intermittent porphyria.
4. Common side effects include sedation, hypotension, dry mouth, and constipation.
5. It has a risk of causing neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a rare but potentially fatal condition.

Review Questions

• What are the primary uses of Thorazine in clinical practice?
• List three common side effects associated with Thorazine.
• What serious condition can Thorazine potentially cause that requires immediate medical attention?

Related terms

Haloperidol: Another first-generation antipsychotic often used for schizophrenia and acute psychosis.

Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS): Drug-induced movement disorders that may occur with antipsychotic medications.

Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS): A rare but life-threatening reaction to antipsychotics characterized by fever, muscle rigidity, and autonomic dysfunction.