Noctec (Chloral Hydrate) Drug Information: Description, User Reviews, Drug Side Effects, Interactions

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May 26, 2012

Noctec

Sleep Disorder Drugs »

Sleep disorder drugs (hypnotic and sedative drugs) overview

Insomnia, a disorder of sleep, occurs occasionally in most people but usually lasts only a few days. The body then "corrects" itself naturally, and people return to a normal pattern of sleep. Insomnia may be short-term (less than three weeks) or chronic, lasting longer than three weeks. Contributing factors include, but are not limited to, poor sleeping habits, stress, jet lag, medications, disease, and depression. Chronic insomnia may warrant the use of sedative/hypnotics medications; however, it is important that the treating physician perform a complete diagnostic evaluation as well as take medication and substance abuse histories, to exclude secondary insomnia due to other conditions.

Hypnotics/sedatives medications (henceforth referred to as hypnotics) work, in general, by increasing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter in the brain. Neuro...

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Noctec

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DRUG DESCRIPTION

CHLORAL HYDRATE SYRUP, USP

500 mg (7½ gr) / 5 mL

Chloral Hydrate Syrup, USP contains chloral hydrate, an effective sedative and hypnotic agent for oral administration.

Each 5 mL (teaspoonful) contains:

Chloral Hydrate, USP .................................................................................... 500 mg (7½ gr)

(WARNING: May be habit forming)

Alcohol .......................................................................................................... less than 0.4%

In a clear, pink to orange colored, orange flavored syrup.

INACTIVE INGREDIENTS: Citric Acid, USP; D&C Yellow No. 10; FD&C Red No. 40; Flavor; Glycerin, USP; Liquid Sugar; Methylparaben, NF; Propylene Glycol, USP; Purified Water, USP; Sodium Benzoate, NF and Sodium Citrate, USP.

Chloral Hydrate is derived by combining a molecule of water with trichloroacetaldehyde (chloral).

Chemically, chloral hydrate is 1,1-Ethanediol, 2,2,2-trichloro-; its molecular formula is CCl₃CH(OH)₂ and its molecular weight is 165.4.

Chloral hydrate occurs as colorless or white, volatile, hygroscopic crystals very soluble in water and in olive oil and freely soluble in alcohol. It has an aromatic, pungent odor and a slightly bitter, caustic taste.

What are the precautions when taking chloral hydrate (Noctec)?

Before taking chloral hydrate, 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: alcohol/drug abuse, heart problems, kidney problems, liver problems, mental/mood conditions (such as depression, thoughts of suicide), irritation of the swallowing tube (esophagus), stomach problems (such as ulcer, gastritis), a certain blood/liver disease (porphyria), breathing problems (such as sleep apnea).

This drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness...

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Last reviewed on RxList: 12/8/2004
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.