Librax is a combination of chlordiazepoxide and clidinium bromide, that is sometimes prescribed to treat various conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and certain types of anxiety. The following are some of the potential side effects associated with the ingredients of Librex.

Chlordiazepoxide Side Effects

Chlordiazepoxide is an active ingredient of Librex and can cause the following side effects:

  • Drowsiness: One of the most common side effects of chlordiazepoxide used in Librax is drowsiness or sedation. This medication can impair your ability to concentrate or operate heavy machinery.
  • Dizziness: Some people may experience dizziness when taking Librax.
  • Lightheadedness: This medication can cause a feeling of lightheadedness or unsteadiness.
  • Dry Mouth: Librax can lead to a dry mouth, which may contribute to dental problems if not managed.
  • Constipation: Constipation is a common side effect of chlordiazepoxide. This is why it is often combined with clidinium bromide, which can help alleviate this side effect.
  • Blurred Vision: Some individuals may experience blurred vision while taking this medication.
  • Changes in Appetite:  Librax can sometimes lead to changes in appetite, including increased or decreased appetite.
  • Allergic Reactions: While rare, some people may experience allergic reactions to chlordiazepoxide, such as skin rash or itching.
  • Memory Problems: In some cases, chlordiazepoxide may cause memory problems or difficulty concentrating.
  • Dependence and Withdrawal: Prolonged use of chlordiazepoxide can lead to dependence, and abrupt discontinuation can result in withdrawal symptoms.

Clidinium Bromide Side Effects

Clindinium is another active ingredient of Librex and can cause the following side effects:

  • Dry Mouth: Like chlordiazepoxide, clidinium bromide can also cause dry mouth.
  • Blurred Vision: Blurred vision is another potential side effect of clidinium bromide.
  • Constipation: Clidinium bromide is often included in this medication to help counteract the constipation side effect of chlordiazepoxide.
  • Difficulty Urinating: Some individuals may experience difficulty urinating while taking clidinium bromide.
  • Drowsiness: Clidinium bromide can also cause drowsiness, which may be exacerbated when taken in combination with chlordiazepoxide.
  • Allergic Reactions: As with any medication, there is a small risk of allergic reactions to clidinium bromide.
Librax Side Effects

What is Librax?

Librax is one of the leading brands of Chlordiazepoxide and Clidinium Bromide, manufactured and marketed by Medo Pharma Pakistan.

Librax : Available Formulations and Strengths

Presently, Librax is available in Tablet form.

Librax Tablet : 5mg Chlordiazepoxide and 2.5mg Clidinium Bromide strength

What Are The Possible Drug Interactions of Librax?

  1. Other Central Nervous System Depressants: Chlordiazepoxide is a central nervous system depressant, so combining it with other medications that have similar effects can lead to increased sedation and respiratory depression. This includes alcohol, other benzodiazepines, opioids, and certain sleep medications.
  2. Antidepressants: Combining chlordiazepoxide with certain antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), can increase the risk of sedation and dizziness.
  3. Antihistamines: Over-the-counter antihistamines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl) can enhance the sedative effects of chlordiazepoxide and clidinium bromide.
  4. Muscle Relaxants: Drugs with muscle relaxant properties, such as cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril), can potentiate the sedative effects of chlordiazepoxide.
  5. Antipsychotics: Combining chlordiazepoxide with antipsychotic medications may increase the risk of drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination.
  6. Anticonvulsants: Some anticonvulsant medications, like phenytoin or carbamazepine, can reduce the effectiveness of chlordiazepoxide.
  7. Antacids: Certain antacids that contain aluminum and magnesium can decrease the absorption of chlordiazepoxide and clidinium bromide from the digestive tract. It’s advisable to take these medications at least two hours apart from antacids.
  8. Grapefruit: Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can inhibit the metabolism of chlordiazepoxide, potentially leading to higher blood levels and increased sedation.
  9. Cimetidine: Cimetidine, a medication used to reduce stomach acid, can increase the concentration of chlordiazepoxide in the bloodstream, potentially intensifying its effects.
  10. Ketoconazole and Itraconazole: These antifungal medications can also increase the levels of chlordiazepoxide in the blood, leading to stronger sedative effects.
  11. Omeprazole: Omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor used to reduce stomach acid, may increase the concentration of chlordiazepoxide.
  12. Medications Metabolized by Cytochrome P450 Enzymes: Chlordiazepoxide is metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes, so medications that affect these enzymes can impact its metabolism. Examples include fluoxetine, fluvoxamine, and some antifungal medications.