These comments are made for the purpose of discussion and should NOT be used as recommendations for or against therapies or other treatments. An individual patient is always advised to consult their own physician.
Librax [posted 8/10/98]
Question: Will prolonged use have an adverse impact on liver functions?
Are there any homeopathic/natural substitutes?
How should you wean yourself from use?
Answer: Generally not, but possible. I am not aware of any homeopathic substitutes, but MDs are not taught a low of homeopathic medicine, you might try another site. In terms of weaning, I would slowly decrease the dose over 3-6 weeks depending on how long and how much you are taking. This is a drug that should not be stopped cold due to potential seizures.
Librax
Question: I would like to know what effects Librax has during pregnancy (if any).
Are there potentially dangerous side-effects? What alternatives to Librax
exist?
Answer: Librax is a combination medication in that it contains both chlordiazepoxide hydrochloride (5 mg,
as well as clidinium bromide (2.5 mg). The first of these two medications is more commonly
known as Librium, which is an anti-anxiety medication, the second, more commonly known as
Quarzan, is a smooth muscle relaxant (smooth muscle is seen, for example in the urinary
bladder, as well as in the small and large intestines), and this portion may be effective against
anxiety-related conditions including spastic colon and irritability of the bladder.
The Physician’s Desk Reference (PDR) reports the possibility of increased risk of birth
malformations associated with the use of minor tranquilizers, among them, chlordiazepoxide.
Thus, if you are planning on taking this medication and are pregnant, or if you are on Librax and
have just received news that you are pregnant, you should speak to your physician about
selecting another form of medication. The studies that found increased risk of malformations
may still be ongoing, or new experimental trials may have been completed, and for the most
recent information, you should contact the manufacturer (Roche Pharmaceuticals).
With respect to other side effects, Librax can cause balance and coordination problems,
particularly in the elderly or debilitated. As with any tranquilizer-containing prescription,
avoidance of operating heavy equipment, driving, or engaging in any activity where fatigue or
sleepiness would be dangerous, is essential. Additional side effects such as dry mouth,
constipation, urinary hesitancy, or blurry vision have been reported. Other very rare side effects
include, but are not limited to rash, nausea, vomiting, and effects on blood cells. As with any
medication, a thorough discussion with your physician can provide you with the necessary
information to decide whether a medication is for you.
About Librax
Question:Why am I unable to find Librax listed in any of the druglists, yet it is frequently mentioned by patients in their Q & A comments? Also, what is the generic name for Librax? Thanks.
Answer: Librax is the brand name for librax. One of the few times that the brand and the generic are the same. This drug combine the ettect of benzodiazepine sedative generally used in anxietynetc. and the antispasmodic effect of clidinium bromide(Quarzan). This drug is regularly used to treat irritable bowel and colonic spasm induced by infections or any irritation. Like librium, it is potentially addicting and can be potentiated by alcohol.
Duration of Use
Question: Can I take the Librax for a long time?
Answer: Yes, but, it will develop a physical and psychological addiction. This addiction is very hard to “break”. However, long term use in patients who require it is ok.
