Oxazepam (marketed under brand names Alepam®, Murelax®, Serax®, Serepax®, Seresta®) is a drug which is a benzodiazepine derivative. It possesses anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, sedative and skeletal muscle relaxant properties.

Pharmacology

---

Oxazepam is a metabolic by-product of diazepam.

Indications

---

It is an intermediate acting benzodiazepine with a slow onset of action, so it is usually prescribed to individuals who have trouble staying asleep, rather than falling asleep. It is commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders with associated tension, irritability, and agitation. It is also prescribed for drug and alcohol withdrawal, and for anxiety associated with depression.

Dosage

---

• Mild/moderate anxiety - 10 to 15mg, 3 to 4 times daily
• Severe anxiety - 15 to 30mg, 3 to 4 times daily
• Symptoms related to alcohol withdrawal - 15 to 30mg, 3 to 4 times daily

Side effects

---

The side effects of oxazepam are similar in nature to those of other benzodiazepines.

Side effects from oxazepam are common and include: drowsiness, dizziness, tiredness, weakness, dry mouth, diarrhea, upset stomach, changes in appetite.

Interactions

---

As oxazepam is an active metabolite of diazepam, there is likely an overlap in possible interactions with other drugs or food.

Contraindications

---

Overdose

---

Symptoms of overdose include:

• Somnolence
• Confusion
• Impaired motor function
• Coma
• Hypoventilation (respiratory depression)
• Hypotension

Legal Status

---

Oxazepam is a Schedule IV drug under the Convention on Psychotropic Substances ^*.

External links

---

• Rx-List - Oxazepam
• Inchem - Oxazepam

Anticonvulsants | Anxiolytics | Benzodiazepines | Hypnotics | Muscle relaxants | Schedule IV controlled substances | Sedatives

Oxazepam | Нозепам | Oxazepam