Chlorpromazine

Definition

Chlorpromazine is an antipsychotic medication primarily used to manage schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. It is also effective as an antiemetic, particularly in preventing nausea and vomiting.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Chlorpromazine belongs to the class of drugs known as typical antipsychotics or first-generation antipsychotics.
2. It works by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, which helps reduce symptoms of psychosis.
3. Common side effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, and hypotension.
4. In addition to its psychiatric uses, chlorpromazine can be used to treat severe nausea and vomiting caused by various medical conditions or treatments.
5. Patients taking chlorpromazine should be monitored for extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) such as tardive dyskinesia.

Review Questions

• What class of drugs does chlorpromazine belong to?
• How does chlorpromazine help in treating psychosis?
• Name two common side effects of chlorpromazine.

Related terms

Antipsychotic: A class of medication used primarily to manage psychosis including delusions and hallucinations.

Extrapyramidal Symptoms (EPS): Drug-induced movement disorders that may include tremors, rigidity, and bradykinesia.

Dopamine Receptor Antagonist: A drug that blocks dopamine receptors, often used in the treatment of psychiatric disorders.