Chlordiazepoxide (Librium) Flashcards

Study Notes

Chlordiazepoxide (Librium) Overview

Classifies as an anxiolytic within therapeutic contexts, specifically aimed at reducing anxiety symptoms.
Falls under the pharmacologic class of benzodiazepines, known for their sedative and anxiolytic properties.

Controlled Substance

Classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance, indicating a lower potential for abuse compared to Schedule I-III drugs but still requires regulation.

Indications for Use

Primarily indicated for treating anxiety disorders.
Also effective in managing symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, aiding in detoxification.

Mechanism of Action

Works by binding to specific benzodiazepine receptors on postsynaptic GABA neurons across various sites in the central nervous system, enhancing GABA's inhibitory effects.

Expected Therapeutic Effects

Functions primarily as an antianxiety agent, helping alleviate tension and anxiety.
Produces sedative and hypnotic effects, making it useful for inducing sleep in patients with insomnia.

Adverse Effects Overview

Monitoring for adverse effects is essential to ensure patient safety and comfort.

Central Nervous System Effects

Common adverse reactions include drowsiness, lethargy, ataxia (loss of coordination), confusion, and extrapyramidal reactions that affect movement. Minor changes in EEG patterns may also occur, indicating alterations in brain activity.

Cardiovascular Effects

Possible cardiovascular responses include edema (swelling due to fluid retention) and changes in ECG readings that could indicate heart rhythm disturbances.

Gastrointestinal Effects

Patients may experience gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and constipation, which should be managed appropriately.

Genitourinary Effects

May lead to menstrual irregularities in female patients, necessitating monitoring during use.

Hematologic Effects

Risk of agranulocytosis, which is a potentially severe drop in white blood cell count, leading to increased infection risk.

Hepatic Effects

Jaundice may be a sign of hepatic function impairment and requires immediate medical attention.

Dermatological Effects

Potential skin eruptions can occur, indicating possible allergic reactions or sensitivity.

Other Effects

Some patients report altered libido, which should be discussed with healthcare providers to address concerns or adjust treatment as needed.

Description

Test your knowledge on Chlordiazepoxide, also known as Librium, through these informative flashcards. Covering its therapeutic class, pharmacologic class, indications, and action, this quiz will enhance your understanding of this important anxiolytic medication.

Chlordiazepoxide (Librium) Flashcards

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Questions and Answers

What is the therapeutic class of Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)?

What is the pharmacologic class of Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)?

What is the controlled substance schedule for Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)?

What are the indications for using Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)?

What is the action of Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)?

What is an expected therapeutic effect of Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)?

What are some common CNS adverse effects of Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)?

What cardiovascular adverse effects can occur with Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)?

What gastrointestinal adverse effects can occur with Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)?

What genitourinary adverse effects can Chlordiazepoxide (Librium) cause?

What hematologic adverse effects are associated with Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)?

What hepatic adverse effect can occur with Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)?

What skin adverse effects can occur with Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)?

What is an unusual effect reported with Chlordiazepoxide (Librium)?