Librium Uses

Librium uses are primarily for treating alcohol withdrawal and anxiety. The medication works by enhancing the calming effects of a certain brain chemical, causing sleepiness, relaxed muscles, and reduced anxiety. As a result, Librium can be effective at controlling certain symptoms of an alcohol withdrawal and can treat anxiety disorders or temporary anxiety symptoms. Librium can also be prescribed "off-label" to treat insomnia.

 

What Is Librium Used For?

Librium® (chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride) is a prescription medication that is used to treat the following conditions:
 
Librium belongs to a group of medications known as benzodiazepines.
 

Librium and Alcohol Withdrawal

Quitting alcohol "cold turkey" is not always a good idea. In fact, it can be quite dangerous. People who drink heavily or frequently may experience symptoms of alcohol withdrawal if they stop drinking alcohol too quickly. Mild alcohol withdrawal symptoms include slight shakiness (the "shakes"), alcohol cravings, nervousness, depression, or clammy skin. More severe symptoms include:
 
  • Seizures
  • Delirium tremens (sometimes called "DTs"), a group of symptoms including confusion, agitation, and hallucinations
  • Severe nausea and vomiting
  • A very rapid heart rate (tachycardia).
     
Withdrawing from alcohol can be life threatening. It should always be done under a healthcare provider's supervision, and hospitalization is sometimes necessary. Librium can help with agitation, shakiness, and delirium tremens associated with alcohol withdrawal. Librium is intended to be used temporarily to help people get through the initial period of withdrawal; it should not be taken for this use for long periods of time.
 
(Librium Uses Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;