How To Tackle Chlorpromazine-Induced Hiccups: An Evidence-Based Guide

Chlorpromazine-induced hiccups are a common side effect in people taking certain psychiatric medications. While they may seem innocuous, they can be extremely disruptive to everyday life, causing problems like malnutrition and sleep disturbances. Given the prevalence of this issue, medical professionals should take steps to help their patients manage these hiccups. In this blog post, we'll provide an evidence-based guide on how to tackle chlorpromazine-induced hiccups – from patient education to lifestyle modifications and medications.

What are chlorpromazine-induced hiccups?

Chlorpromazine-induced hiccups are a well-known and relatively common side effect of the antipsychotic medication chlorpromazine. The mechanism by which chlorpromazine causes hiccups is not fully understood, but it is thought to involve the drug's direct effect on the brainstem (the part of the brain that controls involuntary functions like breathing and heart rate).

While most cases of chlorpromazine-induced hiccups are mild and resolve on their own, some people may experience more severe or persistent hiccups that can interfere with their quality of life. Fortunately, there are a few evidence-based treatments that can help to reduce or eliminate chlorpromazine-induced hiccups.

One simple and effective treatment for chlorpromazine-induced hiccups is sipping ice water. This should be done slowly, with small sips taken over the course of several minutes. Another option is to hold your breath for as long as possible and then breathe out slowly. This can help to reset your breathing pattern and provide relief from hiccups.

If these simple measures do not work, there are a few other options that may be effective. One is to stimulate the vagus nerve, which runs from the brainstem down to the abdomen. This can be done by placing a ice cube on the back of your tongue or by gently massaging the area between your eyebrows.

How do they occur?

Chlorpromazine-induced hiccups are a rare, but potentially serious, side effect of the antipsychotic medication chlorpromazine. They typically occur within the first week of starting the medication, but can occur at any time during treatment. Hiccups are usually intermittent and last for a few seconds to a few minutes, but can occasionally persist for hours or even days.

While the exact mechanism of how chlorpromazine-induced hiccups occur is not fully understood, it is thought to be related to the medication's effects on the central nervous system. Chlorpromazine blocks dopamine receptors in the brain, which can lead to overstimulation of the nerves that control respiration. This may cause irregular and shallow breathing, which can trigger hiccups.

Hiccups can interfere with eating and drinking, and can lead to dehydration if left untreated. While most cases of chlorpromazine-induced hiccups resolve on their own within a few days, some people may require treatment with an anticholinergic medication such as diphenhydramine or benztropine. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the underlying problem.

How to treat chlorpromazine-induced hiccups?

Chlorpromazine is a medication that is used to treat schizophrenia and other mental disorders. It can also be used as a sedative, to relieve anxiety or tension. However, one of the side effects of chlorpromazine is hiccups.

Hiccups are involuntary contractions of the diaphragm, followed by closure of the glottis (the space between the vocal cords). This results in a "hic" sound. Hiccups are usually harmless and resolve on their own, but they can be annoying and disruptive.

There are several ways to treat chlorpromazine-induced hiccups. Some of these methods are backed by evidence, while others are based on anecdotal reports. Here is a summary of the most effective treatments:

1. Change your position. This may help to relieve pressure on the diaphragm and stop the hiccups. Try lying down or sitting up straight.

2. Swallow hard or gargle with water. This may help to stimulate the vagus nerve, which can help to stop the hiccups.

3. Drink a glass of sugar water. This home remedy has been shown to be effective in some studies.4

4. Bite on a lemon or drink lemon juice. The sour taste may help to stimulate the vagus nerve and stop the hiccups.5

5. Stimulate the back of your throat with your finger

Conclusion

In conclusion, chlorpromazine-induced hiccups can present a difficult challenge for medical professionals. Fortunately, this evidence-based guide provides effective and safe strategies to tackle the issue. Our recommendations include lifestyle advice and medication such as benzodiazepines, phenothiazines, anticholinergics or even acupuncture in some cases. With careful consideration of each patient’s individual needs and circumstances, medical staff can successfully address these troublesome hiccups using evidenced-backed approaches.

Read more such content on @ Hidoc Dr | Medical Learning App for Doctors