Librium Dosage

The dosage of Librium depends on why the medication has been prescribed.

While there isn’t a specific number of milligrams in regards to how much Librium is too much, the answer remains simple. Taking a larger dose of Librium than prescribed is too much and can result in an overdose or life-threatening health issues.

Chlordiazepoxide (brand name Librium) is a benzodiazepine used to treat symptoms of anxiety, alcohol withdrawal, and preoperative apprehension. It is an anxiolytic, which inhibits anxiety. The drug is taken orally and available in 5 mg, 10 mg, and 25 mg options.

Librium Dosing Recommendations

Although the brand name Librium has been discontinued, generic chlordiazepoxide is still prescribed. Chlordiazepoxide is a long-acting benzodiazepine approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

According to the FDA, the dosage of Librium mg capsules can vary due to the diagnosis. For adults with mild or moderate symptoms from anxiety disorders, the dose prescribed can be 5 mg or 10 mg three to four times a day.

Adults with severe symptoms from anxiety disorders may be prescribed a dose of 20 mg or 25 mg three to four times daily. Pediatric patients may take 5 mg two to four times daily.

Geriatric patients should only take 5 mg two to four times daily. The dosage for geriatric patients may need to be modified in those who have impaired renal or hepatic functions.

Risks Of High-Dose Librium Use

Chlordiazepoxide is a schedule IV controlled substance and has potential for abuse. This benzodiazepine is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant and works by enhancing the neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric Acid (GABA).

Those taking high doses of Librium may experience the side effects of the drug more intensely. When abused, the effects of chlordiazepoxide can create serious side effects.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Your doctor may recommend tapering off of the medication. It is not recommended to abruptly stop taking Librium, especially after long-term use.

Serious withdrawal symptoms may occur, including:

• seizures
• depression
• trouble sleeping
• extreme drowsiness
• loss of consciousness

Librium Overdose

One of the many concerns regarding taking large doses of chlordiazepoxide include the increased risk of an overdose.

According to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), side effects of a benzodiazepine overdose may include:

• impaired coordination
• respiratory depression
• confusion
• extreme drowsiness
• hypotension
• coma
• death

If you suspect someone has overdosed on Librium, contact 911 as soon as possible.

Librium Warnings

When taking chlordiazepoxide, there are a number of warnings to be aware of.

Drug Interactions

A number of drug interactions can occur when this medication is combined with other drugs. Some of the medications to avoid while taking chlordiazepoxide include:

• supplements or vitamins
• antihistamines
• benzodiazepines such as diazepam (Valium) or alprazolam (Xanax)
• certain antidepressants
• CNS depressants including alcohol
• opioids
• barbiturates
• cimetidine (Tagamet)
• monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)

Seek the medical advice of your doctor before combining any of these medications with Librium.

Also notify your doctor immediately if you become pregnant while taking chlordiazepoxide. Babies can develop health problems if the drug is passed through breast milk when a mother is breastfeeding.

Adverse Reactions

Potential adverse reactions can occur when chlordiazepoxide is taken. For instance, libido disorders and menstrual disorders can occur. This can lead to erectile dysfunction in men.

Side Effects Of Librium

Librium causes a number of side effects, even when used as prescribed.

According to the FDA, some of the common side effects caused by Librium include:

• sedation
• confusion
• drowsiness
• loss of coordination
• dry mouth
• constipation
• ataxia
• slurred speech
• muscle weakness
• fatigue

As mentioned above, taking high doses of Librium can increase these effects and may lead to severe health issues, requiring urgent treatment.

For those of you struggling with benzodiazepine misuse, addiction treatment options are available. To learn how our healthcare professionals can help, please contact us today.