Librium: Drug Information

Generic name: Chlordiazepoxide

Other names: Equirex, Librax, Spasril

Drug Class: Anxiolytic, Anticholinergic

Uses of Librium:

Librium is an anticholinergic and anxiolytic drug that is used in the treatment of anxiety disorders and alcohol withdrawal symptoms. It also exhibits hypnotic, anticholinergic and muscle relaxant properties and helps reduce tension, nervousness and fear. In addition to treating anxiety disorders, it is also given to patients before surgery to help reduce fear. This drug is also administered for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.

Dosage:

Librium should be taken as prescribed by your doctor at regular intervals before meals and at bedtime. Do not stop taking this drug suddenly without the consent of your doctor as it may result in worsening your present condition.

Warning and Precautions:

Librium should not be taken if you are allergic to it.

It should not be given to patients diagnosed with myasthesia gravis, glaucoma, obstructive uropathy, gastro Intestinal obstruction, paralytic ileus, unstable cardiovascular status, acute hemorrhage and acute respiratory conditions.

Safety for this drug has not been established during pregnancy. Therefore, you should avoid taking it if you are pregnant.

Librium can cause drowsiness. Thus, it is important that you avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.

Caution is advised when administering this medicine to patients diagnosed with liver disease, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, ulcerative colitis hernia, reflux esophagitis and autonomic neuropathy.

Close drug monitoring is required when giving this medicine to elderly and debilitated patients.

Nursing mothers must inform their doctor before taking Librium.

Drug Interactions:

Librium can cause various reactions when taken with other drugs. Metoclopramide and Alum hydroxide increase the absorption of Librium, whereas Magnesium trisilicate, Morphine and Pethidin are known to hinder its absorption. Librium also faces additive anticholinergic effects with antidepressants, quinidine and some antihistamines.

Side effects of Librium:

Some of the most common side effects of the medication include dry mouth, blurring of vision, constipation, urinary hesitancy, rise in body temperature, heat stroke, tachycardia, mydriasis, headache, nervousness, drowsiness, weakness, nausea, aggression, drug dependence, mild skin rashes, impaired psychomotor performance and decreased libido.

Overdose:

In case of an overdose of the medication, you must report to your doctor at the earliest or contact your local poison control center.