Uses

Indicated for management of anxiety disorders and short-term relief of anxiety symptoms. Particularly useful in elderly patients for anxiety, tension, agitation, and irritability. Also indicated for anxiety associated with depression and for management of acute alcohol withdrawal symptoms.

Do not use if

Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to oxazepam and in psychoses. Concurrent use with opioids is strongly cautioned due to risk of profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death.

Side effects

Most common side effect is transient mild drowsiness in the first few days. May also cause dizziness, vertigo, headache, and rarely syncope. Mild paradoxical reactions such as excitement or stimulation may occur. Dependence and withdrawal reactions can develop with prolonged use.

Warnings

Carries a boxed warning for risks from concomitant use with opioids, and for abuse, misuse, addiction, dependence, and withdrawal reactions. Should not be used in patients with psychosis. Gradual dose tapering is necessary upon discontinuation to avoid withdrawal seizures.

How it works

Oxazepam is a short to intermediate-acting benzodiazepine that enhances the effect of GABA at the GABA-A receptor, increasing chloride ion conductance and producing anxiolytic, sedative, muscle relaxant, and anticonvulsant effects. It has a mean elimination half-life of approximately 8 hours.

Storage

Store at controlled room temperature between 15°C and 30°C. Protect from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children.