Chlordiazepoxide

Medically Reviewed by Dr. Harshi Dhingra, M.D.

Last Reviewed: Jan 14, 2025

Uses


Chlordiazepoxide Uses

Chlordiazepoxide is used to treat anxiety symptoms and symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.

There may be other uses of chlordiazepoxide, such as for irritable bowel syndrome—your pharmacist or doctor can give you further drug information.

Chlordiazepoxide Mechanism of Action

Chlordiazepoxide works by binding to benzodiazepine receptors in the central nervous system and decreasing abnormal activity in the brain.

Chlordiazepoxide Doses

Chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride capsule comes in strengths of 5 mg, 10 mg, and 25 mg. Typical dosages are as follows:

  • Mild to moderate anxiety in adults: 5 mg or 10 mg 3-4 times a day.
  • Severe anxiety in adults: 20 mg or 25 mg 3-4 times a day.
  • Older adults or those with debilitating conditions: 5 mg 2-4 times a day.
  • For preoperative anxiety: 5 mg or 10 mg 3 to 4 times a day in the days before surgery or 50 mg to 100 mg by intramuscular injection one hour before surgery.
  • For alcohol withdrawal: Injection form is preferred. If oral drug doses are used, the dose is 50 mg or 100 mg and can be up to 300 mg per day initially to control agitation, followed by a reduction to maintenance doses.
  • Children 6 years of age and older: 5 mg 2-4 times daily.