Librium Side Effects, Drug Interactions, & Warnings

Chlordiazepoxide (brand name Librium) is a benzodiazepine prescription drug. It is used to help treat those suffering from alcohol withdrawal or anxiety disorders.

Librium is considered a schedule IV controlled substance according to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), meaning it has a potential for abuse.

Librium can also cause a number of side effects and, when abused, can lead to a number of serious health concerns.

Librium Side Effects

Librium is a central nervous system (CNS) depressant which produces a calming, sedative effect. The medication works by increasing the activity of the neurotransmitter (gamma-aminobutyric acid) GABA in the brain.

Some of the most common side effects of Librium include confusion, drowsiness, and the loss of control of body movements, according to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Short-Term Side Effects

The effects of chlordiazepoxide may last temporarily to treat your symptoms, but a number of short-term side effects can take place, including:

• dizziness
• diarrhea
• changes in appetite
• stomach pain
• weakness
• drowsiness
• dry mouth
• tiredness

Long-Term Side Effects

Long-term use of Librium can lead to other potential side effects such as:

• constipation
• blurred vision
• changes in sex drive
• difficulty urinating
• restlessness

Librium Drug Interactions

Those taking Librium should know that adverse effects and allergic reactions may occur if certain medications are combined with the drug.

CNS Depressants

Those taking Librium should not combine medications, as serious side effects can occur. CNS depressants including benzodiazepines such as diazepam (Valium) and alprazolam (Xanax), muscle relaxants, opioid medications, and certain antidepressants should be avoided.

When multiple CNS depressants are added to your body, severe drowsiness can occur. A person can become unresponsive or heavily sedated which can lead to accidents such as car crashes, falls, or drownings.

Allergic Reactions

Certain allergic reactions may occur when Librium is taken. Speak with your doctor before taking Librium if you currently take supplements, vitamins, antihistamines, or oral contraceptives.

While an allergic reaction may be unlikely, they can occur more frequently in older adults. Some symptoms of an allergic reaction include difficulty breathing, hives, jaundice, and the swelling of your face, tongue, or lips. When this happens, medical attention should be sought immediately.

Librium Warnings

There are a variety of warnings associated with Librium.

For instance, women who are breastfeeding may pass the drug through breast milk. This can lead to malformations and growth problems for the child. If you take Librium and discover you are pregnant, contact your healthcare provider right away.

Withdrawal Symptoms

When the drug is no longer taken or abruptly stopped, you can experience withdrawal symptoms, a sign that a physical dependence has developed.

Quitting Librium “cold turkey” is not recommended. Some of the withdrawal symptoms that may develop include:

• seizures
• depression
• trouble sleeping
• tremors
• vomiting
• nausea
• cravings for the drug
• anxiety
• psychosis
• sweating

If you abuse Librium or take the drug for long-term use, your body can also develop an increased tolerance to the drug, which means you need to take more to feel the desired effects.

Overdose

Those who consume high doses of Librium or abuse the drug may have an increased risk of overdose. An overdose of Librium can be life-threatening.

Some of the symptoms of a Librium overdose include:

• respiratory depression
• convulsions
• loss of balance
• irregular heartbeat
• coma

If you or a loved one need help for prescription drug addiction, please contact us today to learn how our healthcare professionals can help.