Chlorpromazine (Thorazine)

Generic Name

Chlorpromazine
Trade Name

Thorazine
Indication

Second line treatment of schizophrenia and psychosis, nausea/vomiting, pre-op sedation, acute intermittent porphyria, headache, bipolar
Action

Exhibits anticholinergic activity, alters effects of dopamine in CNS
Therapeutic Class

Antipsychotic, antiemetic
Pharmacologic Class

Phenothiazines (dopamine D2 receptor antagonist)
Nursing Considerations

• May cause neuroleptic malignant syndrome, sedation, tardive dyskinesia, hypotension, agranulocytosis • Assess mental status prior to and during treatment • Monitor blood pressure • Ensure patient is taking medication • Monitor CBC and liver function tests • Instruct patient not to skip doses or double dose.