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Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs primarily used for treating anxiety, but they also are effective in treating several other conditions. The exact mechanism of action of benzodiazepines is not known. All benzodiazepines affect gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter chemical that nerves use to communicate with one another. Since scientists believe that excessive activity of nerves in the brain may be the cause of anxiety and other psychological disorders, and GABA reduces the activity of nerves in the brain, benzodiazepines may be working by increasing the effects of GABA in the brain and spinal cord.
Benzodiazepines are used for treating:
They also are used for:
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LIBRIUM®
(chlordiazepoxide HCI) Capsules
Librium, the original chlordiazepoxide HCI and prototype for the benzodiazepine compounds, was synthesized and developed at Hoffmann-La Roche Inc. It is a versatile therapeutic agent of proven value for the relief of anxiety. Librium (chlordiazepoxide) is among the safer of the effective psychopharmacologic compounds available, as demonstrated by extensive clinical evidence.
Librium (chlordiazepoxide) is available as capsules containing 5 mg, 10 mg or 25 mg chlordiazepoxide HCI. Each capsule also contains corn starch, lactose and talc. Gelatin capsule shells may contain methyl.and propyl parabens and potassium sorbater with the following dye systems: 5-mg capsules - FD&C Yellow No. 6 plus D&C Yellow No. 10 and either FD&C Blue No. 1 or FD&C Green No. 3. 10-mg capsules - D&C Yellow No. 10 and either FD&C Blue No. 1 plus FD&C Red No. 3 or FD&C Green No. 3 plus FD&C Red No. 40. 25-mg capsules- D&C Yellow No. 10 and either FD&C Green No. 3 or FD&C Blue No. 1.
Chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride is 7-chloro-2- (methylamino) -5-phenyl-3H-1,4-benzodiazepine 4-oxide hydrochloride. A white to practically white crystalline substance, it is soluble in water. It is unstable in solution and the powder must be protected from light. The molecular weight is 336.22. The structural formula of chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride is as follows:
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Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Librium »
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, kidney disease, lung/breathing problems (e.g., COPD, sleep apnea), blood disorder (porphyria), drug or alcohol abuse.
This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or cause blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness or clear vision until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages.
Caution is advised when using this drug...
Last reviewed on RxList: 10/19/2010
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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