Chlorpromazine Hydrochloride
Chlorpromazine Hydrochloride is a first-generation antipsychotic medication belonging to the phenothiazine class. It works by blocking dopamine D2 receptors in the brain, as well as acting on other neurotransmitter systems including histamine and alpha-adrenergic receptors. This medication is primarily used to treat schizophrenia, severe behavioral disorders, bipolar disorder, and is also employed as an antiemetic for nausea and vomiting.
A first-generation antipsychotic used primarily for schizophrenia and severe behavioral disorders that works by blocking dopamine receptors.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 104728
- Generic
- Chlorpromazine Hydrochloride
- Class
- pin-variant
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders, severe behavioral problems, bipolar disorder, nausea and vomiting, intractable hiccups, and anxiety. Also used as an adjunct in tetanus management.
Blocks dopamine D2 receptors in the mesolimbic and mesocortical pathways of the brain, reducing psychotic symptoms. Additionally blocks histamine H1 receptors (causing sedation), muscarinic receptors (anticholinergic effects), and alpha-1 adrenergic receptors (causing hypotension).
May cause significant sedation, weight gain, extrapyramidal symptoms (movement disorders), anticholinergic side effects, and orthostatic hypotension. Has been largely superseded by newer atypical antipsychotics for many psychiatric indications due to more favorable side effect profiles. Requires regular monitoring for metabolic changes and movement disorders. Use with caution in elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 27, 2026. · Read our editorial policy