Oxazepam

What is Oxazepam?

Oxazepam is used to treat anxiety disorders, including anxiety associated with depression. It is also prescribed to relieve symptoms of acute alcohol withdrawal.

What is the most important information I should know about Oxazepam?

Oxazepam should be used for only a short time. Do not take this medication for longer than 4 months unless your doctor instructs you to.

Oxazepam may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Oxazepam should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction.

Contact your doctor if this medicine seems to stop working as well in treating your symptoms. Do not stop using oxazepam suddenly without first talking to your doctor.

Your symptoms may return when you stop using oxazepam after using it over a long period of time. You may also have seizures or withdrawal symptoms when you stop using oxazepam. Withdrawal symptoms may include tremor, sweating, trouble sleeping, muscle cramps, stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, confusion, unusual thoughts or behavior, and seizures (convulsions).

Who should not take Oxazepam?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to oxazepam or other tranquilizers such as Valium, you should not take oxazepam.

Oxazepam should not be prescribed if you are being treated for mental disorders more serious than anxiety.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Oxazepam?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with oxazepam. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you breathing problems; glaucoma; porphyria; kidney or liver disease; or a history of depression, suicidal thoughts, or addiction to drugs or alcohol.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Mild to Moderate Anxiety with Tension, Irritability, Agitation

Adults: The usual dose is 10 to 15 milligrams (mg) 3 or 4 times per day.

Elderly: The usual starting dose is 10 mg, 3 times a day. Your doctor may increase the dose to 15 mg 3 or 4 times a day, if needed.

Children: Safety and effectiveness have not been established for children less than 6 years of age, nor have dosage guidelines been established for children 6 to 12 years. The doctor will adjust the dosage to fit your child's needs.

Severe Anxiety, Depression with Anxiety, or Alcohol Withdrawal

Adults: The usual dose is 15 to 30 mg, 3 or 4 times per day.

How should I take Oxazepam?

Take oxazepam exactly as prescribed. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Follow the directions on your prescription label.

What should I avoid while taking Oxazepam?

Do not drink alcohol while taking oxazepam. This medication can increase the effects of alcohol. Oxazepam can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.

Avoid using other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold medicine; pain medication; muscle relaxers; and medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety). They can increase some of the side effects of oxazepam.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Oxazepam?

If oxazepam is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining oxazepam with the following: alcohol, antihistamines, narcotic painkillers, sedatives, and tranquilizers.

What are the possible side effects of Oxazepam?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: dizziness, drowsiness, headache, memory impairment, paradoxical excitement, transient amnesia, vertigo

Side effects due to rapid decrease in dose or abrupt withdrawal from oxazepam may include: abdominal and muscle cramps, convulsions, depression, inability to fall asleep or stay asleep, sweating, tremors, vomiting

Can I receive Oxazepam if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Do not take oxazepam if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. There is an increased risk of birth defects. Oxazepam may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If oxazepam is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop breastfeeding until your treatment with oxazepam is finished.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Oxazepam?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

How should I store Oxazepam?

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container.