The diaphragm is a large muscle that separates the chest cavity from the abdominal cavity. The function of the diaphragm is to help assist in breathing by contracting during inhalation to open the thoracic cavity. Hiccups occur when the diaphragm begins to spasm. During the spasm, the air rushes through the vocal cords and causes the distinct sound of the condition as the vocal cords quickly snap shut. Hiccups will usually resolve spontaneously or with a simple home remedy. When the hiccups refuse to stop, medications may help relieve the spasm in the diaphragm and provide relief from the condition.
Chlorpromazine
Chlorpromazine commonly treats psychotic conditions such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. The medication may also help treat hiccups that last longer than a month. A 25 to 50 mg chlorpromazine tablet taken three to four times daily may help end the hiccups, according to Oregon Health and Science University (UHSU). An individual can take the medication for up to three days. Without relief on the tablet, the physician may give the medication as a shot in the muscle and then as a slow intravenous administration. Once the hiccups stop, the physician discontinues the medication. Common side effects from taking chlorpromazine include agitation, drowsiness and an increased appetite.
Metoclopramide
Metoclopramide is an oral or intravenous medication commonly used to treat persistent cases of hiccups, according to the Mayo Clinic. In addition to treating hiccups, the medication works to stimulate the gastrointestinal tract and increases the rate of movement in the stomach. To treat hiccups, the medication reduces the strength of contractions in the esophagus. A physician orders five to 10 mg of metoclopramide administered intravenously or intramuscularly every eight hours and then 10 to 20 mg orally every six hours until relief of the hiccups according to UHSU. Common side effects of suing the medication include nausea, diarrhea, drowsiness and headache.
Baclofen
Baclofen treats muscle spasms in the body, including spasms of the diaphragm. Baclofen is available in tablet form. To treat the hiccups, physicians prescribe 15 mg of baclofen three times a day with dosage increases of 15 mg every three days until relief of the condition, according to UHSU. The max dosage each day is 75 mg. A gradual tapering of baclofen is desirable over an abrupt discontinuation of the medication. Common side effects of baclofen include nausea, constipation, dizziness and fatigue.
