Oxazepam (Oxazepam)
Overview of Oxazepam
Oxazepam is oral anxiolytic belongs to benzodiazipine, with a moderate duration of action. It contains a chiral center. Chemically Oxazepam is identified as 7-Chloro-1,3-dihydro-3-hydroxy-5-phenyl-2H-1,4-benzodiazipine-2-one. Oxazepam is prepared by chemical synthesis, substituent in the 7th position such as halogen or a nitro group is required for its sedative-hypnotic activity. The actions, uses and adverse effects similar to those of Diazepam.
Indication of Oxazepam
Oxazepam is primarily indicated in conditions like Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia, Psychosis, Suppression of transplant rejection, and can also be given in adjunctive therapy as an alternative drug of choice in Alcohol dependence, Alcohol withdrawal.
Contraindication of Oxazepam
Oxazepam is contraindicated in conditions like Pulmonary insufficiency.
Side Effects of Oxazepam
The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Oxazepam, which give rise to further complications include Jaundice.,Oxazepam produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Agranulocytosis, Blood dyscrasias. which are responsible for the discontinuation of Oxazepam therapy.,The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Oxazepam are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Dizziness, Headache, Drowsiness, Nausea, Skin rashes.
Precautions of Oxazepam
Perform periodic blood counts and liver function tests during long term therapy. Oxazepam should be used with caution in patients if increased salivation cause respiratory difficulty, because it may produce an increase in salivation. Give least amount of drug to patients in whom depression accompanies anxiety and suicidal tendencies may be present. It should be used with caution (if it contains tartrazine) in patients with aspirin hypersensitivity because it may cause allergic reaction (including bronchial asthma).