Drug interactions
Chlorpromazine + Ethanol
Severity: Major
Chlorpromazine and Ethanol: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: UK SmPC
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Alcohol adds to the sedative and hypotensive effects of chlorpromazine, impairing alertness and coordination. Large amounts of alcohol may cause profound CNS depression and lower the seizure threshold.
What this interaction means in plain words
Chlorpromazine and Ethanol can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Why it happens
Additive CNS depression and vasodilatory hypotension.
What to do
Advise patients to avoid alcohol while taking chlorpromazine. Warn about driving and operating machinery.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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References
- Chlorpromazine 100mg Tablets - SmPC sections 4.3/4.5 (names the partner; "Alcohol: alcohol potentiates the sedative effect of neuroleptics.") — electronic medicines compendium (UK SmPC)
Other interactions of Chlorpromazine
- Chlorpromazine + Dofetilide Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Dronedarone Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Droperidol Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Ibutilide Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Metrizamide Contraindicated
- Chlorpromazine + Panobinostat Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Chlorpromazine with Ethanol?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Chlorpromazine and Ethanol can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Alcohol adds to the sedative and hypotensive effects of chlorpromazine, impairing alertness and coordination. Large amounts of alcohol may cause profound CNS depression and lower the seizure threshold.
How serious is the interaction between Chlorpromazine and Ethanol?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Advise patients to avoid alcohol while taking chlorpromazine. Warn about driving and operating machinery.
What other medicines interact with Chlorpromazine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Chlorpromazine with, for example, Dofetilide, Dronedarone, Droperidol. The full list is on the Chlorpromazine page.
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