Chlormethiazole

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Chlormethiazole is a sedative and hypnotic that is widely used in treating and preventing symptoms of acute alcohol withdrawal. It is a drug which is structurally related to thiamine (vitamin B1) but acts like a barbiturate, that is, a sedative, hypnotic, muscle relaxant and anticonvulsant.

The drug acts on receptors in the brain known as GABA receptors, which cause the release of a chemical called GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). GABA is a major inhibitory chemical in the brain involved in causing sleepiness and controlling anxiety and fits. It acts by increasing the activity of GABA, thereby reducing the functioning of certain areas of the brain. This results in sleepiness, a decrease in anxiety and relaxation of muscles. It also inhibits a chemical called alcohol dehydrogenase that is responsible for breaking down alcohol in the body. This slows the rate of elimination of alcohol from the body, which helps to relieve the sudden effects of alcohol withdrawal in alcoholics.

It is also used for the management of agitation, restlessness, short-term insomnia and Parkinson's disease in the elderly.

This medicine may cause drowsiness. If affected, do not drive or operate machinery. Alcohol should be avoided. Tolerance and dependence readily occur to this medicine. Tolerance means that less effect is achieved from the same dose. Dependence means that the patient finds it very difficult to stop using the medicine. Abrupt withdrawal may result in symptoms similar to those of sudden withdrawal of alcohol.

In the U.S, it is sold under the brand, Distraneurin® (AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals) and in the U.K, Heminevrin® (AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals).

The Who drummer Keith Moon died due to overdose of this drug.

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