Quick Facts
Generic NameChlorpromazine
Brand NameThorazine
Drug ClassFGA
FDA Approved1954
Starting Dose25mg 2–3x/day
Typical Range200–800mg/day
Max Dose2000mg/day
Half-Life16–30 hours
MetabolismCYP2D6 (major)
Generic AvailableAlways generic
What Is Thorazine?
Chlorpromazine (brand name Thorazine) is a first-generation (typical) antipsychotic (FGA) prescribed for schizophrenia, acute mania, and other psychiatric conditions. FIRST antipsychotic ever (1954) — launched modern psychopharmacology. Low potency: sedating, anticholinergic, causes orthostatic hypotension. More weight gain than haloperidol. Photosensitivity. Blue-gray skin discoloration with chronic use. Largely replaced by SGAs but still available.
At Psychiatry Telemed, chlorpromazine is prescribed and monitored by board-certified psychiatrists who understand the nuances of FGA pharmacology — selecting the right dose, managing side effects, monitoring drug interactions, and optimizing your treatment through consistent monthly medication management appointments.
Chlorpromazine (Thorazine) — FGA medication for psychiatric care
ManufacturerVarious (originally SKF)
How Thorazine Affects Neurotransmitters
How Thorazine Works
Chlorpromazine was the first antipsychotic medication (1954), revolutionizing psychiatric treatment. It blocks D2 receptors with additional strong antihistaminergic, anticholinergic, and alpha-adrenergic activity. Low-potency: more sedating but fewer EPS than haloperidol.
Efficacy: Thorazine vs. Comparators
Efficacy Comparison
Response & remission rates vs. comparators (Cipriani et al. meta-analysis)
Data from published meta-analyses. Individual response may vary.
Conditions Treated with Thorazine
Schizophrenia
First antipsychotic ever approved. Low-potency FGA with broad receptor activity.
Learn About SchizophreniaConsidering Thorazine?
Board-certified psychiatrists can determine if chlorpromazine is right for you.
Dosage Information
| Indication | Starting Dose | Typical Range | Maximum |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schizophrenia | 25mg 2–3x/day | 200–800mg/day | 2000mg/day |
| Acute Mania | 25mg 2–3x/day | 200–800mg/day | 2000mg/day |
Brain Regions Targeted by Thorazine
Side Effects
Like all medications, chlorpromazine has potential side effects. Most are mild, occur early in treatment, and resolve within 1–2 weeks. Your psychiatrist monitors at every appointment.
Common Side Effects
SedationOrthostatic HypotensionWeight GainDry MouthConstipationBlurred Vision
Less Common
PhotosensitivitySkin PigmentationEPSProlactin ElevationCholestatic Jaundice
Serious (Seek Immediate Help)
NMSTardive DyskinesiaAgranulocytosis (rare)SeizuresRetinal Pigmentation
Side Effect Profile: Thorazine vs. Class Average
Side Effect Profile
Incidence rates from FDA prescribing information vs. class average
Percentages from clinical trial data. Actual experience may differ.
⚠️ FDA Black Box Warning
Elderly dementia patients — increased mortality risk.
Drug Interactions
Major Interactions
CNS depressants, anticholinergics, CYP2D6 inhibitors, antihypertensives
CYP Metabolism
Substrate of CYP2D6. Multiple active metabolites.
Alcohol
Avoid alcohol during chlorpromazine treatment. Both affect the CNS, increasing sedation and impairing judgment.
Generic Versions & Cost
Generic chlorpromazine available since Always generic. Approximate cost: $4–10/month. FDA-certified bioequivalent to brand-name Thorazine.
Starting Thorazine: What to Expect
First Weeks
Chlorpromazine is typically started at 25mg 2–3x/day and increased gradually. Common initial side effects usually improve within 1–2 weeks. Full therapeutic benefit develops over 4–8 weeks.
When to Contact Your Psychiatrist
Contact your psychiatrist for: worsening depression/anxiety, thoughts of self-harm, unusual agitation, severe side effects, or any concerning changes.
Stopping Thorazine Safely
Never stop chlorpromazine abruptly. Your psychiatrist will develop a gradual tapering schedule to minimize discontinuation effects.
Timeline: When Thorazine Starts Working
Timeline to Effectiveness
Expected improvement trajectory over the first 8 weeks
Based on clinical trial data. Full therapeutic effects may take 6–8 weeks.
Get Thorazine from a Board-Certified Psychiatrist
At Psychiatry Telemed, chlorpromazine is prescribed following comprehensive evaluation. All Florida via HIPAA-compliant telepsychiatry. 1–3 days. $200 eval, $100 follow-up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Prescribed for schizophrenia, acute mania.
Typically 2–4 weeks for initial improvement, 4–8 weeks for full benefit.
Common: sedation, orthostatic hypotension, weight gain, dry mouth, constipation. Most resolve within 1–2 weeks.
No. Not habit-forming but should not be stopped abruptly — gradual tapering recommended.
FIRST antipsychotic ever (1954) — launched modern psychopharmacology. Low potency: sedating, anticholinergic, causes orthostatic hypotension. More weight gain than haloperidol. Photosensitivity. Blue-
Alcohol should be avoided — increases sedation, impairs judgment, and may worsen symptoms.
Resources
Medical Disclaimer: Educational only. Consult a psychiatrist before starting/stopping medication. Crisis: call 988 or 911.
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