section name header

Pronunciation

klor-dye-az-e-POX-ide

Classifications

Therapeutic Classification: antianxiety agents, sedative/hypnotics

Pharmacologic Classification: benzodiazepines

Indications

BEERS REMS


Action

  • Acts at many levels of the CNS to produce anxiolytic effect.
  • Depresses the CNS, probably by potentiating GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter.
Therapeutic effects:
  • Sedation.
  • Relief of anxiety.

Pharmacokinetics

Absorption: Well absorbed from the GI tract.

Distribution: Widely distributed. Crosses the blood-brain barrier.

Metabolism/Excretion: Highly metabolized by the liver. Some products of metabolism are active as CNS depressants.

Half-Life: 5–30 hr.

Time/Action Profile

(sedation)

ROUTEONSETPEAKDURATION
PO1–2 hr0.5–4 hrup to 24 hr



Contraind./Precautions

Contraindicated in:

Use Cautiously in:

Adv. Reactions/Side Effects

Derm: rash

EENT: blurred vision

GI: constipation, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting

Metab: weight gain

Neuro: dizziness, drowsiness, depression, hangover, headache, paradoxical excitation, sedation

Misc: physical dependence, psychological dependence, tolerance

Interactions

Drug-drug:

Drug-Natural Products:

Route/Dosage

Alcohol Withdrawal

Anxiety

Availability

(Generic available)

Assessment

Lab Test Considerations:

Toxicity and Overdose:

Implementation

Patient/Family Teaching

Evaluation/Desired Outcomes

US Brand Names

Libritabs, Librium

Contr. Subst. Schedule

Schedule IV (C-IV)

Code

NDC Code