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Oxazepam - Uses And Side Effects for Oxazepam (Serax)

Generic Name: Oxazepam - ORAL (ox-AZ-eh-pam)

Oxazepam is most commonly used to relieve anxiety related conditions. It is not recommended for the long-term treatment of anxiety due to the development of dependence. Oxazepam is used to treat symptoms of anxiety, such as worry, restlessness, and insomnia; symptoms that occur during alcohol withdrawal; and agitation and irritability in elderly individuals. Oxazepam is in a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines.

How to Take Oxazepam

Take oxazepam tablets or capsules by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Swallow the tablets or capsules with a drink of water. If oxazepam upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your prescriber's advice.

Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Use oxazepam medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose, take it more frequently or use it for a longer period of time than prescribed because this drug can be habit-forming

What are the Side Effects of Oxazepam

Some common side effects reported with Oxazepam include:

• Confusion
• Depression
• Lightheadedness or fainting spells
• Mood changes, excitability or aggressive behavior
• Muscle cramps
• Restlessness
• Weakness or tiredness

Some other side effects associated with Oxazepam Drug that usually do not require medical attention include

• Headache
• Nausea, vomiting
• Dizziness

Warnings and precautions for Oxazepam

• Oxazepam medicine is generally only suitable for short-term use. If it is used for long periods or in high doses, tolerance to and dependence upon the medicine may develop, and withdrawal symptoms may occur if treatment is stopped suddenly.
• Oxazepam medicine should be avoided during pregnancy as it may be harmful to the developing baby. This is particularly important during the third trimester of pregnancy and prior to or during labour.
• Oxazepam medicine passes into breast milk. It is recommended that mothers should avoid using this medicine while breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
• Your body can become dependent on oxazepam, ask your prescriber or health care professional if you still need to take it. However, if you have been taking oxazepam regularly for some time, do not suddenly stop taking it. You must gradually reduce the dose or you may get severe side effects.
• Not to be used in Liver disease, Slow or shallow breathing (respiratory depression).

Label warnings

• Oxazepam medication may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Avoid alcoholic drink.

What drugs may interact with Oxazepam

The following medications may increase the sedative effect of oxazepam:

• Medicines for anxiety or sleeping problems, such as alprazolam, diazepam, lorazepam or triazolam.
• Alcohol.
• Sedating antihistamines such as chlorpheniramine
• Oxazepam may increase or decrease blood phenytoin levels.
• Theophylline.
• Herbal or dietary supplements such as kava kava, melatonin, or valerian.

What to do if you take Overdose of Oxazepam medicine?

If you take overdose of Oxazepam the seek medical attention immediately. For non emergencies, contact your local or regional poison control center.

What if you miss a dose of Oxazepam ?

If you miss a dose of Oxazepam , take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

How to Store Oxazepam

• Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.
• Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed.
• Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

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