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What Is Oxazepam Used For?

Oxazepam is a prescription medication that is used to treat anxiety and panic disorders, as well symptoms caused by alcohol withdrawal. It is taken orally, with or without food. Dosages vary depending on the condition it is treating and how well a person responds to the medication. Because it can cause dizziness or drowsiness, you should not drive or perform other potentially unsafe tasks until you know how the medicine affects you.

  1. How It Works

    • Oxazepam is a benzodiazipine that interacts with receptors in the brain to cause a chemical called gamma amino butyric acid, or GABA, to be released. Oxazepam increases the brain's GABA activity, which in turn reduces the function or particular areas of the brain to decrease anxiety and relax muscles.

    Non-Serious Side Effects

    • Some people who take Oxazepam may notice they feel dizzy, drowsy, clumsy, lightheaded or unsteady. Some people also have headaches or feel a whirling motion. These side effects are no cause for concern but can be reported to your doctor if they become bothersome.

    Serious Side Effects

    • Because they can be a sign of a potential problem and may require treatment, inform your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following side effects: chest pain, sleep disturbances, excitability, unexplained weakness, change in sex drive, severe drowsiness, severe mood changes, slurred speech, difficulty walking, fainting, nausea or vomiting, severe stomach pain, jaundice, a sore throat, fever or dark urine.

    Warnings

    • Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and people with certain medical conditions, including severe mental disorders such as psychosis, narrow-eye glaucoma and severe liver disease, should not take Oxazepam. Additionally, some effects of Oxazepam such as drowsiness and dizziness can be intensified when combined with alcohol or other medications, so be sure to inform your doctor and pharmacist of any other medicines you are taking.

    Drug Interactions

    • Taking Oxazepam with such medications such as Clozapine, sodium oxybate and valporic acid can increase the chances of experiencing the side effects of Oxazepam. Similiarly, taking medications classified as hydantoins with Oxazepam increases the odds of experiencing the hydantoin's side effects.

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