INFORMATION FOR PATIENTS SECTION.

Information for Patients. To assure the safe and effective use of benzodiazepines, patients should be informed that, since benzodiazepines may produce psychological and physical dependence, it is advisable that they consult with their physician before either increasing the dose or abruptly discontinuing this drug.

ANIMAL PHARMACOLOGY & OR TOXICOLOGY SECTION.

Animal Pharmacology. The drug has been studied extensively in many species of animals and these studies are suggestive of action on the limbic system of the brain, which recent evidence indicates is involved in emotional responses.Hostile monkeys were made tame by oral drug doses which did not cause sedation. Chlordiazepoxide HCl revealed taming action with the elimination of fear and aggression. The taming effect of chlordiazepoxide HCl was further demonstrated in rats made vicious by lesions in the septal area of the brain. The drug dosage which effectively blocked the vicious reaction was well below the dose which caused sedation in these animals.The LD50 of parenterally administered chlordiazepoxide HCl was determined in mice (72 hours) and rats (5 days), and calculated according to the method of Miller and Tainter, with the following results: mice, IV, 123 +- 12 mg/kg; mice, IM, 366 +- mg/kg; rats, IV, 120 +- mg/kg; rats, IM, 160 mg/kg.

BOXED WARNING SECTION.

WARNING: RISKS FROM CONCOMITANT USE WITH OPIOIDS. Concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death [see WARNINGS, DRUG INTERACTIONS].Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate.Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required.Follow patients for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate.. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required.. Follow patients for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.

INDICATIONS & USAGE SECTION.

INDICATIONS AND USAGE. Chlordiazepoxide HCl capsules are indicated for the management of anxiety disorders or for the short term relief of symptoms of anxiety, withdrawal symptoms of acute alcoholism, and preoperative apprehension and anxiety. Anxiety or tension associated with the stress of everyday life usually does not require treatment with an anxiolytic.The effectiveness of chlordiazepoxide HCl capsules in long term use, that is, more than months, has not been assessed by systematic clinical studies. The physician should periodically reassess the usefulness of the drug for the individual patient.

ADVERSE REACTIONS SECTION.

ADVERSE REACTIONS. The necessity of discontinuing therapy because of undesirable effects has been rare. Drowsiness, ataxia and confusion have been reported in some patients -- particularly the elderly and debilitated. While these effects can be avoided in almost all instances by proper dosage adjustment, they have occasionally been observed at the lower dosage ranges. In few instances syncope has been reported.Other adverse reactions reported during therapy include isolated instances of skin eruptions, edema, minor menstrual irregularities, nausea and constipation, extrapyramidal symptoms, as well as increased and decreased libido. Such side effects have been infrequent, and are generally controlled with reduction of dosage. Changes in EEG patterns (low-voltage fast activity) have been observed in patients during and after chlordiazepoxide HCl treatment.Blood dyscrasias (including agranulocytosis), jaundice and hepatic dysfunction have occasionally been reported during therapy. When chlordiazepoxide HCl treatment is protracted, periodic blood counts and liver function tests are advisable.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY SECTION.

CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY. Chlordiazepoxide HCl has antianxiety, sedative, appetite-stimulating and weak analgesic actions. The precise mechanism of action is not known. The drug blocks EEG arousal from stimulation of the brain stem reticular formation. It takes several hours for peak blood levels to be reached and the half-life of the drug is between 24 and 48 hours. After the drug is discontinued plasma levels decline slowly over period of several days. Chlordiazepoxide is excreted in the urine, with 1% to 2% unchanged and 3% to 6% as conjugate.. Animal Pharmacology. The drug has been studied extensively in many species of animals and these studies are suggestive of action on the limbic system of the brain, which recent evidence indicates is involved in emotional responses.Hostile monkeys were made tame by oral drug doses which did not cause sedation. Chlordiazepoxide HCl revealed taming action with the elimination of fear and aggression. The taming effect of chlordiazepoxide HCl was further demonstrated in rats made vicious by lesions in the septal area of the brain. The drug dosage which effectively blocked the vicious reaction was well below the dose which caused sedation in these animals.The LD50 of parenterally administered chlordiazepoxide HCl was determined in mice (72 hours) and rats (5 days), and calculated according to the method of Miller and Tainter, with the following results: mice, IV, 123 +- 12 mg/kg; mice, IM, 366 +- mg/kg; rats, IV, 120 +- mg/kg; rats, IM, 160 mg/kg.. Effects on Reproduction. Reproduction studies in rats fed 10, 20 and 80 mg/kg daily and bred through one or two matings showed no congenital anomalies, nor were there adverse effects on lactation of the dams or growth of the newborn. However, in another study at 100 mg/kg daily there was noted significant decrease in the fertilization rate and marked decrease in the viability and body weight of off-spring which may be attributable to sedative activity, thus resulting in lack of interest in mating and lessened maternal nursing and care of the young. One neonate in each of the first and second matings in the rat reproduction study at the 100 mg/kg dose exhibited major skeletal defects. Further studies are in progress to determine the significance of these findings.

CONTRAINDICATIONS SECTION.

CONTRAINDICATIONS. Chlordiazepoxide HCl capsules are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to the drug.

DESCRIPTION SECTION.

DESCRIPTION. Chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride is the prototype for the benzodiazepine compounds. It is versatile therapeutic agent of proven value for the relief of anxiety. Chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride is among the safer of the effective psychopharmacologic compounds available, as demonstrated by extensive clinical evidence.Chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride is 7-chloro-2- (methylamino)-5-phenyl-3H-1,4-benzodiazepine 4-oxide hydrochloride. white to practically white crystalline substance, it is soluble in water. It is unstable in solution and the powder must be protected from light. The structural formula is:C16H14ClN3O HCl M.W. 336.22Each capsule, for oral administration, contains either mg, 10 mg or 25 mg of chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride, USP and has the following inactive ingredients: anhydrous lactose, D&C yellow no. 10, FD&C blue no. 1, FD&C blue no. aluminum lake, gelatin, hydrogenated vegetable oil, microcrystalline cellulose, pharmaceutical glaze, and titanium dioxide. The mg and 25 mg also contain D&C yellow no. 10 aluminum lake, FD&C blue no. aluminum lake, FD&C red no. 40 aluminum lake, propylene glycol, and synthetic black iron oxide. In addition, the mg contains D&C red no. 33 and the 10 mg also contains butyl paraben, edetate calcium disodium, dimethyl polysiloxane, ethylene glycol monoethyl ether, FD&C red no. 40, methyl paraben, propyl paraben, sodium, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium propionate, and soya lecithin.. Chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride structural formula.

DOSAGE & ADMINISTRATION SECTION.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION. Because of the wide range of clinical indications for chlordiazepoxide HCl, the optimum dosage varies with the diagnosis and response of the individual patient. The dosage, therefore, should be individualized for maximum beneficial effects.ADULTSUSUAL DAILY DOSERelief of Mild and Moderate Anxiety Disorders and Symptoms of Anxiety5 mg or 10 mg, or times dailyRelief of Severe Anxiety Disorders and Symptoms of Anxiety 20 mg or 25 mg, or times dailyGeriatric Patients, or in the presence of debilitating disease.5 mg, to times dailyPreoperative Apprehension and AnxietyOn days preceding surgery, to 10 mg orally, or times daily. If used as preoperative medication, 50 to 100 mg IM hour prior to surgery.PEDIATRIC PATIENTSUSUAL DAILY DOSEBecause of the varied response of pediatric patients to CNS-acting drugs, therapy should be initiated with the lowest dose and increased as required. Since clinical experience in pediatric patients under years of age is limited, the use of the drug in this age group is not recommended.5 mg, to times daily (may be increased in some pediatric patients to 10 mg, to times daily)For the relief of withdrawal symptoms of acute alcoholism, the parenteral form is usually used initially. If the drug is administered orally, the suggested initial dose is 50 to 100 mg, to be followed by repeated doses as needed until agitation is controlled -- up to 300 mg per day. Dosage should then be reduced to maintenance levels.

DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE SECTION.

DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE. Chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride capsules are classified by the Drug Enforcement Administration as Schedule IV controlled substance.Withdrawal symptoms, similar in character to those noted with barbiturates and alcohol (convulsions, tremor, abdominal and muscle cramps, vomiting and sweating), have occurred following abrupt discontinuance of chlordiazepoxide. The more severe withdrawal symptoms have usually been limited to those patients who had received excessive doses over an extended period of time. Generally milder withdrawal symptoms (e.g., dysphoria and insomnia) have been reported following abrupt discontinuance of benzodiazepines taken continuously at therapeutic levels for several months. Consequently, after extended therapy, abrupt discontinuation should generally be avoided and gradual dosage tapering schedule followed. Addiction-prone individuals (such as drug addicts or alcoholics) should be under careful surveillance when receiving chlordiazepoxide or other psychotropic agents because of the predisposition of such patients to habituation and dependence.

DRUG INTERACTIONS SECTION.

DRUG INTERACTIONS. The concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids increases the risk of respiratory depression because of actions at different receptor sites in the CNS that control respiration. Benzodiazepines interact at GABAA sites and opioids interact primarily at mu receptors. When benzodiazepines and opioids are combined, the potential for benzodiazepines to significantly worsen opioid-related respiratory depression exists. Limit dosage and duration of concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids, and monitor patients closely for respiratory depression and sedation.

HOW SUPPLIED SECTION.

HOW SUPPLIED. Chlordiazepoxide Hydrochloride Capsules USP, 25 mg are available as two-piece hard gelatin capsule with an aqua green opaque cap and white opaque body filled with white powder, imprinted in black ink stylized barr 159, available in Bingo card of 30ct (NDC 17856-0164-01)Dispense in tight, light-resistant container as defined in the USP, with child-resistant closure (as required).Store at 20 to 25C (68 to 77F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature] in dry place.KEEP THIS AND ALL MEDICATIONS OUT OF THE REACH OF CHILDREN.Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc.North Wales, PA 19454Rev. 8/2016DISTRIBUTED BY:ATLANTIC BIOLOGICALS CORP.MIAMI, FL 33179.

OVERDOSAGE SECTION.

OVERDOSAGE. Manifestations of chlordiazepoxide overdosage includes somnolence, confusion, coma and diminished reflexes. Respiration, pulse and blood pressure should be monitored, as in all cases of drug overdosage, although, in general, these effects have been minimal following chlordiazepoxide HCl overdosage. General supportive measures should be employed, along with immediate gastric lavage. Intravenous fluids should be administered and an adequate airway maintained. Hypotension may be combated by the use of norepinephrine or metaraminol. Dialysis is of limited value. There have been occasional reports of excitation in patients following chlordiazepoxide HCl overdosage; if this occurs barbiturates should not be used. As with the management of intentional overdosage with any drug, it should be borne in mind that multiple agents may have been ingested. Flumazenil, specific benzodiazepine-receptor antagonist, is indicated for the complete or partial reversal of the sedative effects of benzodiazepines and may be used in situations when an overdose with benzodiazepine is known or suspected. Prior to the administration of flumazenil, necessary measures should be instituted to secure airway, ventilation and intravenous access. Flumazenil is intended as an adjunct to, not as substitute for, proper management of benzodiazepine overdose. Patients treated with flumazenil should be monitored for resedation, respiratory depression and other residual benzodiazepine effects for an appropriate period after treatment. The prescriber should be aware of risk of seizure in association with flumazenil treatment, particularly in long term benzodiazepine users and in cyclic antidepressant overdose. The complete flumazenil package insert, including CONTRAINDICATIONS, WARNINGS, and PRECAUTIONS, should be consulted prior to use.

PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL.

Package/Label Display Panel. NDC 17856-0164-01CIVChlordiazepoxideHydrochloridePHARMACIST: Dispense the accompanyingMedication Guide to each patient.Rx only. image description.

PEDIATRIC USE SECTION.

Pediatric Use. Because of the varied response of pediatric patients to CNS-acting drugs, therapy should be initiated with the lowest dose and increased as required (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION). Since clinical experience with chlordiazepoxide HCl in pediatric patients under years of age is limited, use in this age group is not recommended. Hyperactive aggressive pediatric patients should be monitored for paradoxical reactions to chlordiazepoxide HCl (see PRECAUTIONS).

PRECAUTIONS SECTION.

PRECAUTIONS. In elderly and debilitated patients, it is recommended that the dosage be limited to the smallest effective amount to preclude the development of ataxia or oversedation (10 mg or less per day initially, to be increased gradually as needed and tolerated). In general, the concomitant administration of chlordiazepoxide HCl and other psychotropic agents is not recommended. If such combination therapy seems indicated, careful consideration should be given to the pharmacology of the agents to be employed -- particularly when the known potentiating compounds such as MAO inhibitors and phenothiazines are to be used. The usual precautions in treating patients with impaired renal or hepatic function should be observed.Paradoxical reactions, e.g., exctextent, stimulation and acute rage, have been reported in psychiatric patients and in hyperactive aggressive pediatric patients, and should be watched for during chlordiazepoxide HCl therapy. The usual precautions are indicated when chlordiazepoxide HCl is used in the treatment of anxiety states where there is any evidence of impending depression; it should be borne in mind that suicidal tendencies may be present and protective measures may be necessary. Although clinical studies have not established cause and effect relationship, physicians should be aware that variable effects on blood coagulation have been reported very rarely in patients receiving oral anticoagulants and chlordiazepoxide HCl. In view of isolated reports associating chlordiazepoxide with exacerbation of porphyria, caution should be exercised in prescribing chlordiazepoxide to patients suffering from this disease.. Pediatric Use. Because of the varied response of pediatric patients to CNS-acting drugs, therapy should be initiated with the lowest dose and increased as required (see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION). Since clinical experience with chlordiazepoxide HCl in pediatric patients under years of age is limited, use in this age group is not recommended. Hyperactive aggressive pediatric patients should be monitored for paradoxical reactions to chlordiazepoxide HCl (see PRECAUTIONS).. Information for Patients. To assure the safe and effective use of benzodiazepines, patients should be informed that, since benzodiazepines may produce psychological and physical dependence, it is advisable that they consult with their physician before either increasing the dose or abruptly discontinuing this drug.

SPL MEDGUIDE SECTION.

MEDICATION GUIDE. MEDICATION GUIDEChlordiazepoxide (KLOR-dye-AZ-e-POX-ide) Hydrochloride Capsules, C-IVWhat is the most important information should know about chlordiazepoxideChlordiazepoxide is benzodiazepine medicine. Taking benzodiazepines with opioid medicines, alcohol, or other central nervous system depressants (including street drugs) can cause severe drowsiness, breathing problems (respiratory depression), coma and death.Chlordiazepoxide can make you sleepy or dizzy, and can slow your thinking and motor skills.Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know how chlordiazepoxide affects you.Do not drink alcohol or take other drugs that may make you sleepy or dizzy while taking chlordiazepoxide without first talking to your healthcare provider. When taken with alcohol or drugs that cause sleepiness or dizziness, chlordiazepoxide may make your sleepiness or dizziness much worse.Do not take more chlordiazepoxide than prescribed.What is chlordiazepoxideChlordiazepoxide is prescription medicine used:to treat anxiety disordersfor the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxietyto treat withdrawal symptoms of acute alcoholismpreoperatively to treat apprehension and anxiety Chlordiazepoxide is federal controlled substance (C-IV) because it can be abused or lead to dependence. Keep chlordiazepoxide in safe place to prevent misuse and abuse. Selling or giving away chlordiazepoxide may harm others, and is against the law. Tell your healthcare provider if you have abused or been dependent on alcohol, prescription medicines or street drugs.It is not known if chlordiazepoxide is safe and effective in children under years of age.It is not known if chlordiazepoxide is safe and effective for use for longer than months.Do not take chlordiazepoxide if you are allergic to chlordiazepoxide or to any of the ingredients in chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride capsules.See the end of this Medication Guide for complete list of ingredients in chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride capsules.Before you take chlordiazepoxide, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:have or have had depression, mood problems, or suicidal thoughts or behaviorhave history of drug or alcohol abuse or addictionhave liver or kidney problemsare pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Chlordiazepoxide may harm your unborn baby. You and your healthcare provider should decide if you should take chlordiazepoxide while you are pregnant.are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Chlordiazepoxide may pass into your breast milk and may harm your baby. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby if you take chlordiazepoxide.Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.Taking chlordiazepoxide with certain other medicines can cause side effects or affect how well chlordiazepoxide or the other medicines work. Do not start or stop other medicines without talking to your healthcare provider.How should take chlordiazepoxideTake chlordiazepoxide exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it. Your healthcare provider will tell you how much chlordiazepoxide to take and when to take it.If you take too much chlordiazepoxide, call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away.What should avoid while taking chlordiazepoxideChlordiazepoxide can cause you to be drowsy. Do not drive car or operate heavy machinery until you know how chlordiazepoxide affects you.You should not drink alcohol while taking chlordiazepoxide. Drinking alcohol can increase your chances of having serious side effects.What are the possible side effects of chlordiazepoxideChlordiazepoxide may cause serious side effects, including:See What is the most important information should know about chlordiazepoxideAbuse and dependence. Taking chlordiazepoxide can cause physical and psychological dependence. Physical and psychological dependence is not the same as drug addiction. Your healthcare provider can tell you more about the differences between physical and psychological dependence and drug addiction.Withdrawal symptoms. You may have withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking chlordiazepoxide suddenly. Withdrawal symptoms can be serious and include seizures. Mild withdrawal symptoms include depressed mood and trouble sleeping. Talk to your healthcare provider about slowly stopping chlordiazepoxide to avoid withdrawal symptoms.The most common side effects of chlordiazepoxide include:drowsinessloss of control of body movements (ataxia)confusionThese are not all the possible side effects of chlordiazepoxide. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.How should store chlordiazepoxideStore chlordiazepoxide at room temperature between 68F to 77F (20C to 25C).Keep chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride capsules in tightly closed container and out of the light.Keep chlordiazepoxide and all medicines out of the reach of children.General information about the safe and effective use of chlordiazepoxide.Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in Medication Guide. Do not use chlordiazepoxide for condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give chlordiazepoxide to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them. You can ask your pharmacist or healthcare provider for information about chlordiazepoxide that is written for health professionals.What are the ingredients in chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride capsulesActive ingredient: chlordiazepoxide hydrochlorideInactive ingredients: anhydrous lactose, D&C yellow no. 10, FD&C blue no. 1, FD&C blue no. aluminum lake, gelatin, hydrogenated vegetable oil, microcrystalline cellulose, pharmaceutical glaze, and titanium dioxide. The mg and 25 mg also contain D&C yellow no. 10 aluminum lake, FD&C blue no. aluminum lake, FD&C red no. 40 aluminum lake, propylene glycol, and synthetic black iron oxide. In addition, the mg contains D&C red no. 33 and the 10 mg also contains butyl paraben, edetate calcium disodium, dimethyl polysiloxane, ethylene glycol monoethyl ether, FD&C red no. 40, methyl paraben, propyl paraben, sodium, sodium lauryl sulfate, sodium propionate, and soya lecithin.Manufactured by:Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. North Wales, PA 19454For more information, go to www.tevagenerics.com or call 1-888-838-2872.This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Issued: 8/2016. Chlordiazepoxide is benzodiazepine medicine. Taking benzodiazepines with opioid medicines, alcohol, or other central nervous system depressants (including street drugs) can cause severe drowsiness, breathing problems (respiratory depression), coma and death.. Chlordiazepoxide can make you sleepy or dizzy, and can slow your thinking and motor skills.Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know how chlordiazepoxide affects you.Do not drink alcohol or take other drugs that may make you sleepy or dizzy while taking chlordiazepoxide without first talking to your healthcare provider. When taken with alcohol or drugs that cause sleepiness or dizziness, chlordiazepoxide may make your sleepiness or dizziness much worse.. Do not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know how chlordiazepoxide affects you.. Do not drink alcohol or take other drugs that may make you sleepy or dizzy while taking chlordiazepoxide without first talking to your healthcare provider. When taken with alcohol or drugs that cause sleepiness or dizziness, chlordiazepoxide may make your sleepiness or dizziness much worse.. Do not take more chlordiazepoxide than prescribed.. Chlordiazepoxide is prescription medicine used:to treat anxiety disordersfor the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxietyto treat withdrawal symptoms of acute alcoholismpreoperatively to treat apprehension and anxiety to treat anxiety disorders. for the short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety. to treat withdrawal symptoms of acute alcoholism. preoperatively to treat apprehension and anxiety. Chlordiazepoxide is federal controlled substance (C-IV) because it can be abused or lead to dependence. Keep chlordiazepoxide in safe place to prevent misuse and abuse. Selling or giving away chlordiazepoxide may harm others, and is against the law. Tell your healthcare provider if you have abused or been dependent on alcohol, prescription medicines or street drugs.. It is not known if chlordiazepoxide is safe and effective in children under years of age.. It is not known if chlordiazepoxide is safe and effective for use for longer than months.. have or have had depression, mood problems, or suicidal thoughts or behavior. have history of drug or alcohol abuse or addiction. have liver or kidney problems. are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Chlordiazepoxide may harm your unborn baby. You and your healthcare provider should decide if you should take chlordiazepoxide while you are pregnant.. are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Chlordiazepoxide may pass into your breast milk and may harm your baby. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby if you take chlordiazepoxide.. Take chlordiazepoxide exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it. Your healthcare provider will tell you how much chlordiazepoxide to take and when to take it.. If you take too much chlordiazepoxide, call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away.. Chlordiazepoxide can cause you to be drowsy. Do not drive car or operate heavy machinery until you know how chlordiazepoxide affects you.. You should not drink alcohol while taking chlordiazepoxide. Drinking alcohol can increase your chances of having serious side effects.. See What is the most important information should know about chlordiazepoxide. Abuse and dependence. Taking chlordiazepoxide can cause physical and psychological dependence. Physical and psychological dependence is not the same as drug addiction. Your healthcare provider can tell you more about the differences between physical and psychological dependence and drug addiction.. Withdrawal symptoms. You may have withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking chlordiazepoxide suddenly. Withdrawal symptoms can be serious and include seizures. Mild withdrawal symptoms include depressed mood and trouble sleeping. Talk to your healthcare provider about slowly stopping chlordiazepoxide to avoid withdrawal symptoms.. drowsiness. loss of control of body movements (ataxia). confusion. Store chlordiazepoxide at room temperature between 68F to 77F (20C to 25C).. Keep chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride capsules in tightly closed container and out of the light.. Keep chlordiazepoxide and all medicines out of the reach of children.

SPL UNCLASSIFIED SECTION.

Effects on Reproduction. Reproduction studies in rats fed 10, 20 and 80 mg/kg daily and bred through one or two matings showed no congenital anomalies, nor were there adverse effects on lactation of the dams or growth of the newborn. However, in another study at 100 mg/kg daily there was noted significant decrease in the fertilization rate and marked decrease in the viability and body weight of off-spring which may be attributable to sedative activity, thus resulting in lack of interest in mating and lessened maternal nursing and care of the young. One neonate in each of the first and second matings in the rat reproduction study at the 100 mg/kg dose exhibited major skeletal defects. Further studies are in progress to determine the significance of these findings.

WARNINGS SECTION.

WARNINGS. Concomitant use of benzodiazepines, including chlordiazepoxide, and opioids may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Because of these risks, reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate.Observational studies have demonstrated that concomitant use of opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines increases the risk of drug-related mortality compared to use of opioids alone. If decision is made to prescribe chlordiazepoxide concomitantly with opioids, prescribe the lowest effective dosages and minimum durations of concomitant use, and follow patients closely for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. In patients already receiving an opioid analgesic, prescribe lower initial dose of chlordiazepoxide than indicated in the absence of an opioid and titrate based on clinical response. If an opioid is initiated in patient already taking chlordiazepoxide, prescribe lower initial dose of the opioid and titrate based upon clinical response.Advise both patients and caregivers about the risks of respiratory depression and sedation when chlordiazepoxide is used with opioids. Advise patients not to drive or operate heavy machinery until the effects of concomitant use with the opioid have been determined (see DRUG INTERACTIONS).Chlordiazepoxide HCl may impair the mental and/or physical abilities required for the performance of potentially hazardous tasks such as driving vehicle or operating machinery. Similarly, it may impair mental alertness in children. The concomitant use of alcohol or other central nervous system depressants may have an additive effect. PATIENTS SHOULD BE WARNED ACCORDINGLY.