Chlorproethazine

Chlorproethazine is a pharmacological agent that belongs to the class of phenothiazine derivatives. It is primarily used as an antipsychotic medication, with its primary indication being the treatment of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.

Pharmacology

Chlorproethazine, like other phenothiazines, works by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain. This reduces the effect of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that is often found in excess in individuals with psychotic disorders. The exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve the inhibition of dopamine D2 receptors in the mesolimbic pathway, a brain area implicated in psychosis.

Clinical Use

Chlorproethazine is used in the treatment of various psychotic disorders, including schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and acute mania. It may also be used off-label for other conditions, such as insomnia and severe nausea and vomiting.

Side Effects

Common side effects of chlorproethazine include drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth. More serious side effects can include tardive dyskinesia, a condition characterized by involuntary movements, and neuroleptic malignant syndrome, a potentially life-threatening reaction to antipsychotic drugs.

Contraindications

Chlorproethazine is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to phenothiazines, as well as in those with certain medical conditions, such as liver disease, heart disease, and glaucoma. It should also be used with caution in elderly patients and those with a history of seizures.

See Also

• Phenothiazine
• Antipsychotic
• Schizophrenia
• Psychosis