MedicinecontrolledEssential

Chlordiazepoxide

A benzodiazepine for anxiety, alcohol withdrawal and pre-surgery apprehension.

Clinical information

Common uses

anxiety disorders and short-term anxiety relief
acute alcohol withdrawal symptoms
apprehension before surgery

Common side effects

drowsiness
unsteadiness (ataxia)
confusion, mainly in older people

Cautions

with opioids: severe sedation, breathing failure, death (boxed warning)
risk of misuse, addiction and overdose (boxed warning)
dependence — do not stop suddenly; taper gradually (boxed warning)
breastfeeding not recommended

Interactions

opioid painkillers — dangerous breathing suppression

Pregnancy: late-pregnancy use can sedate the newborn or cause withdrawal

Reference information, not medical advice — always follow your doctor or pharmacist. Source: DailyMed, dailymed.nlm.nih.gov, chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride capsule label, setid 9aba3135-00ff-47ba-b926-55eb16b361bf (accessed 2026-08-16)

Approved brands & formulations1

Brand name	Dosage form	Strength	Importer	Category
Chlordiazepoxide	Tablet	10 mg	MFDA designated importers with Pre Authorization approval before import	controlled