IV Dilution &
Medication Reference

Chlorpromazine - Thorazine ®

Usual Diluents

Standard Dilutions [Amount of drug] [Infusion volume] [Infusion rate]

Stability / Miscellaneous

Label: Do not refrigerate// Monitor BP closely.

The IV route is very irritating and should be reserved for severe cases only (intractable hiccups-- oral or IM dosing were not effective).

Chlorpromazine Hydrochloride Injection contains sodium metabisulfite and sodium sulfite, sulfites that may cause allergic-type reactions including anaphylactic symptoms and life-threatening or less severe asthmatic episodes in certain susceptible people. The overall prevalence of sulfite sensitivity in the general population is unknown and probably low. Sulfite sensitivity is seen more frequently in asthmatic than in nonasthmatic people.

Postural hypotension, simple tachycardia, momentary fainting and dizziness may occur after the first injection; occasionally after subsequent injections; rarely, after the first oral dose. Usually recovery is spontaneous and symptoms disappear within 1/2 to 2 hours. Occasionally, these effects may be more severe and prolonged, producing a shock-like condition.

To minimize hypotension after injection, keep patient lying down and observe for at least 1/2 hour. To control hypotension, place patient in head-low position with legs raised. If a vasoconstrictor is required, norepinephrine and phenylephrine are the most suitable. Other pressor agents, including epinephrine, should not be used as they may cause a paradoxical further lowering of blood pressure.

EKG Changes
Particularly nonspecific, usually reversible Q and T wave distortions-have been observed in some patients receiving phenothiazine tranquilizers, including chlorpromazine.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION
Adults
Adjust dosage to individual and the severity of his condition, recognizing that the milligram for milligram potency relationship among all dosage forms has not been precisely established clinically. It is important to increase dosage until symptoms are controlled. Dosage should be increased more gradually in debilitated or emaciated patients. In continued therapy, gradually reduce dosage to the lowest effective maintenance level, after symptoms have been controlled for a reasonable period.

InIncrease parenteral dosage only if hypotension has not occurred. Before using IM, see Important Notes On Injection.

Elderly Patients
In general, dosages in the lower range are sufficient for most elderly patients. Since they appear to be more susceptible to hypotension and neuromuscular reactions, such patients should be observed closely. Dosage should be tailored to the individual, response carefully monitored, and dosage adjusted accordingly. Dosage should be increased more gradually in elderly patients.

Psychotic Disorders
Increase dosage gradually until symptoms are controlled. Maximum improvement may not be seen for weeks or even months. Continue optimum dosage for 2 weeks; then gradually reduce dosage to the lowest effective maintenance level. Daily dosage of 200 mg is not unusual. Some patients require higher dosages (e.g., 800 mg daily is not uncommon in discharged mental patients).

Hospitalized Patients: Acute Schizophrenic or Manic States
IM: 25 mg (1 mL). If necessary, give additional 25 to 50 mg injection in 1 hour. Increase subsequent IM doses gradually over several days-up to 400 mg q4-6h in exceptionally severe cases-until patient is controlled. Usually the patient becomes quiet and cooperative within 24 to 48 hours and oral doses may be substituted.

Prompt Control of Severe Symptoms
IM: 25 mg (1 mL). If necessary, repeat in 1 hour. Subsequent doses should be oral, 25-50 mg tid.

Nausea and Vomiting
IM: 25 mg (1 mL). If no hypotension occurs, give 25 to 50 mg q3-4h prn, until vomiting stops. Then switch to oral dosage.

During Surgery
IM: 12.5 mg (0.5 mL). Repeat in 1/2 hour if necessary and if no hypotension occurs. IV: 2 mg per fractional injection, at 2-minute intervals. Do not exceed 25 mg. Dilute to 1 mg/mL, i.e., 1 mL (25 mg) mixed with 24 mL of saline.

Presurgical Apprehension
IM:12.5 to 25 mg (0.5-1 mL), 1 to 2 hours before operation.

Intractable Hiccups
If symptoms persist for 2-3 days after trial with oral therapy, give 25 to 50 mg (1-2 mL) IM. Should symptoms persist, useslow IV infusion with patient flat in bed:25 to 50 mg (1-2 mL) in 500 to 1000 mL of saline. Follow blood pressure closely.

Acute Intermittent Porphyria
IM:25 mg (1 mL) tid or qid until patient can take oral therapy.

Tetanus
IM:25 to 50 mg (1-2 mL) given 3 or 4 times daily, usually in conjunction with barbiturates. Total doses and frequency of administration must be determined by the patient's response, starting with low doses and increasing gradually. IV: 25 to 50 mg (1-2 mL). Dilute to at least 1 mg per mL and administer at a rate of 1 mg per minute.

Pediatric Patients (6 months to 12 years of age)
Chlorpromazine should generally not be used in pediatric patients under 6 months of age except where potentially lifesaving. It should not be used in conditions for which specific pediatric dosages have not been established.

Parenteral drug products should be inspected visually for particulate matter and discoloration prior to administration, whenever solution and container permit.

HOW SUPPLIED
Chlorpromazine Hydrochloride Injection, USP 25 mg/mL is available in the following packages:

1 mL DOSETTE ampul packaged in 25s (NDC0641-1397-35)
2 mL DOSETTE ampul packaged in 25s (NDC0641-1398-35)

Storage
Protect from light, or discoloration may occur. Slight yellowing will not alter potency. Discard if markedly discolored. Store at 20°-25°C (68°-77°F), excursions permitted to 15°-30°C (59°-86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from freezing.

Baxter and Dosette are trademarks of Baxter International Inc., or its subsidiaries.
Manufactured by
Baxter Healthcare Corporation
Deerfield, IL 60015 USA
For Product Inquiry 1 800 ANA DRUG (1-800-262-3784)
MLT-19/1.0