Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use Chlorpromazine.
Blood cells: Chlorpromazine may lower white blood cell levels in the body. This usually occurs with longer treatment and appears about 4 to 10 weeks after starting treatment. If you have symptoms of an infection (e.g., sore throat, fever, weakness), contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Blood pressure: Chlorpromazine may lower blood pressure leading to dizziness. To help prevent this effect, get up slowly from a sitting position, or dangle your legs over the side of the bed when getting up from a lying down position. People taking medication to lower blood pressure should have their blood pressure checked regularly.
Drowsiness/reduced alertness: Chlorpromazine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Do not operate machinery or drive a car if the medication affects you in this way.
Glaucoma: People with glaucoma should discuss with their doctor how Chlorpromazine may affect their medical condition, how their medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Chlorpromazine, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Heart disease: People with heart disease should discuss with their doctor how Chlorpromazine may affect their medical condition, how their medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Chlorpromazine, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Lab tests: While taking chlorpromazine, you will need to have your blood counts checked regularly by your doctor.
Liver disease: People who have impaired liver function or alcoholic liver disease should be closely monitored by their doctor while they are on Chlorpromazine.
Lung disease or breathing problems: People with lung disease or breathing problems should discuss with their doctor how Chlorpromazine may affect their medical condition, how their medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Prostate enlargement: People with an enlarged prostate should be closely monitored by their doctor while taking Chlorpromazine.
Seizures: People with a history of seizures should discuss with their doctor how Chlorpromazine may affect their medical condition, how their medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Chlorpromazine, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Stopping the medication: Chlorpromazine is not addictive, but side effects may occur if stopped suddenly after taking high doses. Do not stop the medication without checking with your doctor first.
Sunlight: Chlorpromazine may make you more sensitive to sunlight. Protect your skin with clothing and a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 before going out into the sun.
Pregnancy: Chlorpromazine can be used during pregnancy if necessary to treat psychosis. However, chlorpromazine should not be used close to term because of the possible dangers to the mother and the infant.
Breast-feeding: Chlorpromazine passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking chlorpromazine, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.
Children: The safety and effectiveness of using Chlorpromazine have not been established for children under 6 months of age.
Seniors: Due to the increased risk of low blood pressure and other side effects, seniors should be closely monitored by their doctor if they take chlorpromazine. Lower doses may be needed.
