From the FDA Drug Label
The use of alcohol with this drug should be avoided due to possible additive effects and hypotension. The FDA drug label does not directly answer the question of whether alcohol exacerbates the Thorazine Shuffle, but it does mention that alcohol should be avoided due to additive effects.
- The Thorazine Shuffle is not explicitly mentioned in the label.
- However, it is known that the Thorazine Shuffle is a type of extrapyramidal symptom (EPS), which can be exacerbated by certain factors.
- The label warns against the use of alcohol with chlorpromazine due to possible additive effects, which could potentially worsen EPS symptoms, including the Thorazine Shuffle 1.
From the Research
Alcohol can exacerbate the Thorazine (chlorpromazine) shuffle, a type of movement disorder characterized by a slow, shuffling gait, due to its central nervous system depressant properties that enhance the effects of chlorpromazine. When alcohol is consumed while taking chlorpromazine, it can intensify this side effect because both substances have central nervous system depressant properties. Chlorpromazine works by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, which can lead to extrapyramidal symptoms including the shuffling gait, and alcohol can enhance these effects by further suppressing central nervous system function.
According to a study published in 1976 2, the combined administration of chlorpromazine and alcohol led to inaccuracy, a slowing of reactions, and impaired proprioception and coordination. This suggests that alcohol can worsen the movement problems associated with chlorpromazine.
Some studies have investigated the relationship between substance abuse and extrapyramidal symptoms in patients with schizophrenia. For example, a study published in 2013 3 found that a history of alcohol abuse at the time of diagnosis was associated with current akathisia, a type of extrapyramidal symptom. However, this study did not specifically examine the effect of alcohol on the Thorazine shuffle.
Other studies have examined the effects of chlorpromazine on movement disorders, but have not specifically addressed the question of whether alcohol exacerbates the Thorazine shuffle. For example, a study published in 2017 4 examined the dose-response relationship of chlorpromazine in patients with schizophrenia, but did not mention the effect of alcohol on movement disorders.
In terms of management, patients taking chlorpromazine should avoid alcohol completely to prevent not only worsening of the Thorazine shuffle but also other potentially dangerous side effects such as excessive sedation, confusion, respiratory depression, and increased risk of falls. If you're experiencing the Thorazine shuffle, consult your healthcare provider, as dosage adjustments or alternative medications might be considered.
Key points to consider:
- Alcohol can exacerbate the Thorazine shuffle due to its central nervous system depressant properties
- Chlorpromazine works by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain, leading to extrapyramidal symptoms
- The combined administration of chlorpromazine and alcohol can worsen movement problems
- Patients taking chlorpromazine should avoid alcohol to prevent worsening of the Thorazine shuffle and other potentially dangerous side effects.