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chloralodol

N05CC02

Forms & Strengths

Historically available as oral capsules (typically 500 mg)
Oral elixir formulations (historical)

Adult Dosing

Insomnia: 500 mg to 1 g orally 15 to 30 minutes before bedtime
Maximum daily dose: 2 g

Pediatric Dosing

Safety and efficacy not well established in pediatric patients; generally avoided
Historical use in children was discouraged due to risk of paradoxical excitement and respiratory depression

Indications

Short-term management of insomnia (historical sedative-hypnotic)

Mechanism of Action

Central nervous system depressant structurally and pharmacologically related to chloral hydrate
Enhances inhibitory neurotransmission via GABAergic pathways, producing sedation and hypnosis

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to chloralodol or related compounds (e.g., chloral hydrate)
Severe hepatic impairment
Severe renal impairment
Severe cardiac disease

Adverse Reactions

Central nervous system depression (drowsiness, dizziness, hangover effect)
Gastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, gastric irritation)
Paradoxical excitement or confusion, especially in elderly patients
Respiratory depression at high doses
Dependence and tolerance with prolonged use

Drug Interactions

CNS depressants (alcohol, barbiturates, opioids, benzodiazepines): synergistic sedative and respiratory depressive effects
Coumarin anticoagulants: may alter anticoagulant response (historical data associated with chloral derivatives)

Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use