Chloral Hydrate Review

Chloral hydrate, a sedative, is used in the short-term treatment of insomnia. Patients who have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep often are prescribed drugs containing Chloral Hydrate to induce sleep when it would be otherwise difficult or impossible. Chloral Hydrate is also used to treat anxiety, to induce sleep before surgery or, in some cases, to treat alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Depending on dosage and complimentary ingredients in the drug you are prescribed, Chloral Hydrate can have either fast-acting or long-lasting sedative effects.

Is Chloral Hydrate Safe?

Chloral Hydrate is potentially habit forming and is generally prescribed for short periods of time ranging from 2 to 7 days. If you have been taking a drug containing Chloral Hydrate for a longer period, do not discontinue use completely. Your doctor will likely reduce dosage gradually.

Certain people should not take Chloral Hydrate including patients with kidney or liver disease, heart or stomach problems, a history of alcohol or drug abuse, or asthma. Chloral Hydrate can also be harmful to unborn children or nursing infants and should not be taken by women who are pregnant, plan to become pregnant or are nursing.

It is also important to know and disclose to your doctor any other medications you are taking especially if you are on any type of “blood thinner” like warfarin (Coumadin). Antihistamines, furosemide (Lasix), medications for depression or seizures, sedatives, sleeping pills, tranquilizers, and even vitamins can cause dangerous complications and should be disclosed to your doctor or pharmacist so they can alter dosage or recommend you discontinue use of Chloral Hydrate.

Chloral Hydrate Side Effects

Like any prescription drug there are risks to be considered before you and your doctor decide whether or not to use Chloral Hydrate. If you and your doctor decide to use Chloral Hydrate you may experience the following side effects:

• upset stomach
• vomiting
• diarrhea

If you experience any of the following side effects, emergency medical treatment may be necessary:

• skin rash
• itching
• confusion
• difficulty breathing
• slow heartbeat
• extreme tiredness

If you take a medication containing Chloral Hydrate and experience any of these symptoms consult your doctor immediately.

Conclusion

Difficulty sleeping or staying asleep can be caused by a number of factors and can severely limit your ability to function and could have adverse health effects if left untreated. Many of us also experience anxiety or need to relax before major surgery. For some time now, doctors have prescribed medications with varying brand names containing the active ingredient Chloral Hydrate. Its habit forming qualities make it a potentially dangerous ingredient and precautions should always be taken to follow closely the doctor’s prescription. If you are taking a medication that contains Chloral Hydrate, be aware of the potential side effects and make sure you disclose all of your previous medical conditions along with all the medications you are currently taking to avoid potentially dangerous reactions to the drug. Consider your options carefully and be aware of the presence of Chloral Hydrate in any sedative drug you may be taking.