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What happens if I miss a dose?

If you take one dose of chlorpromazine a day, take the missed dose as soon as you remember, then go back to your regular schedule the next day. If you do not remember until it is time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

If you are taking chlorpromazine on a regular schedule several times a day, take the missed dose within 1 hour of its regular time. If more than 1 hour has passed, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

If you are taking chlorpromazine as needed for nausea and vomiting, take the missed dose as soon as possible if needed, then wait at least 4 hours before taking another dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a chlorpromazine overdose include uncontrollable movements, agitation, seizures, severe dizziness or fainting, coma, very deep sleep, irregular heartbeats, and high or low body temperature.

What should I avoid while taking chlorpromazine?

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Chlorpromazine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities.

Dizziness may be more likely to occur when you rise from a sitting or lying position. Rise slowly to prevent dizziness and a possible fall.

Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking chlorpromazine. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Chlorpromazine may increase the sensitivity of your skin to sunlight. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when sun exposure is unavoidable.

What are the possible side effects of chlorpromazine?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking chlorpromazine and seek emergency medical treatment:

• an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, tongue, or face; or hives);

• uncontrollable movements of the tongue, face, lips, arms, or legs;

• muscle spasms of the face or neck;

• severe restlessness or tremor;

• severe drowsiness or fainting;

• a rash; or

• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes).

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take chlorpromazine and talk to your doctor if you experience:

• decreased sweating;

• dry mouth or stuffy nose

• constipation;

• blurred vision

• mild restlessness, drowsiness, or tremor;

• difficult urination or dark urine;

• decreased sex drive;

• dizziness;

• increased appetite; or

• menstrual irregularities or swollen breasts.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.