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Chlordiazepoxide Hcl: Full Drug Profile

Medically reviewed by Min Clinic Staff | Updated: January 2026

Chlordiazepoxide Hcl - General Information

An anxiolytic benzodiazepine derivative with anticonvulsant, sedative, and amnesic properties. It has also been used in the symptomatic treatment of alcohol withdrawal.

 

Pharmacology of Chlordiazepoxide Hcl

Chlordiazepoxide Hcl has antianxiety, sedative, appetite-stimulating and weak analgesic actions. The precise mechanism of action is not known. The drug blocks EEG arousal from stimulation of the brain stem reticular formation. The drug has been studied extensively in many species of animals and these studies are suggestive of action on the limbic system of the brain, which recent evidence indicates is involved in emotional responses. Hostile monkeys were made tame by oral drug doses which did not cause sedation. Chlordiazepoxide Hcl revealed a "taming" action with the elimination of fear and aggression. The taming effect of chlordiazepoxide was further demonstrated in rats made vicious by lesions in the septal area of the brain. The drug dosage which effectively blocked the vicious reaction was well below the dose which caused sedation in these animals.

 

Chlordiazepoxide Hcl for patients

To assure the safe and effective use of benzodiazepines, patients should be informed that, since benzodiazepines may produce psychological and physical dependence, it is advisable that they consult with their physician before either increasing the dose or abruptly discontinuing the drug.

 

Chlordiazepoxide Hcl Interactions

Although clinical studies have not established a cause and effect relationship, physicians should be aware that variable effects an blood coagulation have been reported very rarely in patients receiving oral anticoagulants and chlordiazepoxide.
The concomitant use of alcohol or other central nervous system depressants may have an additive effect.

 

Chlordiazepoxide Hcl Contraindications

Chlordiazepoxide HCl Capsules are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug.

 

Additional information about Chlordiazepoxide Hcl

Chlordiazepoxide Hcl Indication

For the management of anxiety disorders or for the short-term relief of symptoms of anxiety, withdrawal symptoms of acute alcoholism, and preoperative apprehension and anxiety.

Mechanism Of Action
Chlordiazepoxide Hcl binds to stereospecific benzodiazepine (BZD) binding sites on GABA (A) receptor complexes at several sites within the central nervous system, including the limbic system and reticular formation. BZDs enhance GABA-mediated chloride influx through GABA receptor channels, causing membrane hyperpolarization. The net neuro-inhibitory effects result in the observed sedative, hypnotic, anxiolytic, and muscle relaxant properties.
Drug Interactions
Cimetidine Cimetidine increases the effect of the benzodiazepine
Food Interactions
Take without regard to meals.
Generic Name
Chlordiazepoxide
Drug Category
Anti-anxiety Agents; Hypnotics and Sedatives; Adjuvants, Anesthesia; Benzodiazepines; GABA Modulators
Drug Type
Small Molecule; Illicit; Approved
Toxicity (Overdose)
LD50=537 mg/kg (Orally in rats). Signs of overdose include respiratory depression, muscle weakness, somnolence (general depressed activity).
Biotransformation
Hepatic.
Half Life
24-48 hours
Dosage Forms of Chlordiazepoxide Hcl
Capsule Oral
Chemical IUPAC Name
7-chloro-4-hydroxy-N-methyl-5-phenyl-3H-1,4-benzodiazepin-2-imine
Chemical Formula
C16H14ClN3O
Organisms Affected
Humans and other mammals