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The long half-life of the drug makes it ideal for alleviating alcohol withdrawal symptoms.
It is a sedative and hypnotic that belongs to the benzodiazepine class of drugs , a class of psychoactive drugs used to treat anxiety, agitation, insomnia, muscle spasms, seizures, and alcohol withdrawal.
Indications
Chlordiazepoxide is the most prescribed drug for alcohol withdrawal due to its long half-life, which means that some of its active metabolites remain in effect even after two days of previous ingestion.
However, older people require special caution, as there are risks of drug accumulation and long-acting, which in turn can lead to cases of drug abuse and dependence or overdose.
Similarly, pregnant and lactating women should first consult a healthcare provider before taking the drug or continuing use.
Taking chlordiazepoxide can cause common side effects such as confusion, constipation , fainting, liver problems, drowsiness, nausea, allergies, bloating caused by fluid retention, lack of muscle coordination, jaundice, and menstrual irregularities.
If you experience unusual symptoms, see your doctor immediately.
Side Effects of Chlordiazepoxide and Alcohol Mix
Cordiazepoxide is a prescription drug that acts as a central nervous system depressant .
Alcohol is also considered a depressant, and alcohol abuse or intake is often referred to in mental health as self-medication.
Both of these substances slow down brain activity, and together they produce a fairly powerful central nervous system depressant that can cause adverse side effects.
Taking chlordiazepoxide while drinking alcohol also increases the risk of serious side effects, such as heart palpitations, respiratory depression, and fatal toxicity.
Other side effects include memory problems, dizziness, low blood pressure, drowsiness, unusual behavior, and coordination problems.
If you are taking chlordiazepoxide for alcohol withdrawal treatment, you should avoid drinking alcohol completely to ensure continued safe recovery.
People with anxiety and mental illness should also avoid alcohol while using chlordiazepoxide.
Treatment for Chlordiazepoxide and Alcohol Addiction
Chlordiazepoxide and alcohol addiction usually occurs while taking the drug during alcohol withdrawal treatment.
The first step in treating addiction is to stop drinking alcohol, as it can lead to an overdose given the fact that the substances have similar effects.
Addicted people can also substitute diazepam for chlordiazepoxide, another benzodiazepine that has a long half-life.
Diazepam is also available in low-potency doses. However, it is important to stop drinking alcohol while the addiction is being treated to ensure that no relapse of the addiction occurs.
Benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome
Chlordiazepoxide is indicated for the short-term treatment of alcohol withdrawal and anxiety.
Prolonged intake of chlordiazepoxide can lead to physical dependence or addiction, which is known as benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome.
Withdrawal symptoms are similar to those shown with dependence on alcohol and barbiturates.
These include tremors, sweating, muscle spasms, agitation, gastric problems, depression , suicidal behavior, seizures, depersonalization, psychosis, and irritability.
Withdrawal symptoms often manifest after a chlordiazepoxide-dependent individual stops taking the drug.
If you or a loved one is addicted to chlordiazepoxide and alcohol, it is best to consult a healthcare professional before abruptly withdrawing from these substances.
Like other withdrawal syndromes, withdrawal from benzodiazepines should be gradual to ensure that no dangerous side effects occur.
Alcoholic beverages and chlordiazepoxide
During the withdrawal and recovery process, many alcoholics are prescribed anti-anxiety medications to lessen the symptoms of fear and panic.
Chlordiazepoxide is one of those drugs used in this way. When taken correctly, the drug is generally safe and causes few side effects.
However, it can become a habit if taken for long periods of time. Similarly, patients often develop a tolerance to the medication, sometimes taking larger doses to achieve the same effect.
Because of these concerns, chlordiazepoxide is generally prescribed for the shortest time possible to achieve the necessary effect.
The most common side effects of chlordiazepoxide include drowsiness, weakness, an upset stomach, and changes in appetite.
The side effects that are most concerning range from restlessness and blurred vision to irregular heartbeats. When any of these effects interfere with your daily routine, tell your doctor immediately.
You shouldn’t stop taking chlordiazepoxide suddenly, as this can intensify the side effects you’ve been experiencing.
If you are taking chlordiazepoxide as a means of alleviating alcohol withdrawal, then you absolutely must not drink. In addition to defeating the purpose of the medication, you will intensify the effects of both alcohol and chlordiazepoxide.
