How do you take Chlorpromazine (Chlorpromazine Hydrochloride)?

For adults, the usual starting dose is 25 mg to 75 mg taken by mouth two or three times a day. Your doctor may gradually increase the dose depending on how you respond. Take the tablets with food or a full glass of water to reduce stomach upset. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without your doctor's advice — the dose should be reduced gradually.

What are the side effects of Chlorpromazine (Chlorpromazine Hydrochloride)?

Feeling very sleepy or drowsy, dry mouth, dizziness especially when standing up quickly, blurred vision, constipation

Who should not take Chlorpromazine (Chlorpromazine Hydrochloride)?

People who are allergic to chlorpromazine or similar medicines, people with severe liver disease, people with a blood condition called porphyria, people in a coma or deeply unconscious state, people with bone marrow problems, and those with a condition called phaeochromocytoma (a rare tumour of the adrenal gland).

Prescription

Antipsychotic (Phenothiazine)

Chlorpromazine

Last reviewed June 2026

Who is this for?

What is this drug?

Chlorpromazine is a medicine that works by calming certain chemicals in the brain, helping to reduce agitation, disturbed thinking, and severe anxiety. It belongs to a group of drugs called phenothiazines that help balance brain activity.

What is it used for?

Mental health conditions like schizophrenia (when someone hears voices or sees things that are not there)severe anxiety and agitationuncontrollable hiccupssevere nausea and vomiting

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Nausea & Vomiting Anxiety & Sleep Problems Depression & Mental Health Schizophrenia & Psychosis

How it works

Blocks dopamine (D2) receptors in the mesolimbic and mesocortical pathways of the brain, reducing psychotic symptoms, while also antagonizing alpha-adrenergic, muscarinic cholinergic, and H1 histamine receptors, contributing to its antiemetic and sedative effects.

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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What to watch out for

This is a strictly prescription medicine — do not buy it from roadside sellers or use someone else's prescription, as wrong dosage can be very dangerous. It makes you very drowsy so do not drive okada, keke, or any vehicle after taking it. Do not stop the medicine suddenly on your own — always let your doctor reduce the dose gradually to avoid withdrawal symptoms.

Common Side Effects

Feeling very sleepy or drowsy
dry mouth
dizziness especially when standing up quickly
blurred vision
constipation

Serious Side Effects

Uncontrollable movements of the face
tongue
or body (this needs urgent medical attention)
yellowing of the eyes or skin which could mean liver problems
fainting or very fast heartbeat — go to the hospital immediately if you notice any of these.

Drug Interactions

Avoid drinking alcohol while taking chlorpromazine as it can make you extremely drowsy and dangerously lower your blood pressure. Be careful if you are also taking medicines for malaria like quinine, as both can affect the heart rhythm. Antacids (like the ones used for ulcer) can reduce how well chlorpromazine works — take them at least 2 hours apart.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Chlorpromazine is not considered safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding — do not take it without consulting your doctor first, as it can affect the baby.

Who Should NOT Take This

People who are allergic to chlorpromazine or similar medicines
people with severe liver disease
people with a blood condition called porphyria
people in a coma or deeply unconscious state
people with bone marrow problems
and those with a condition called phaeochromocytoma (a rare tumour of the adrenal gland).

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it on windowsills or in your car. Keep the medicine tightly sealed and away from moisture. Always keep it out of the reach of children.

For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.