Products
Bromazepam is commercially available in tablet form (Lexotanil). It has been approved in many countries since 1974.
Structure and properties
Bromazepam (C14H10BrN3O, Mr = 316.2 g/mol) exists as a white to yellowish crystalline powder that is practically insoluble in water. It is a brominated 1,4-benzodiazepine.
Effects
Bromazepam (ATC N05BA08) has antianxiety, sedative, and depressant properties. The effects are due to binding to GABA-A receptors and enhancement of GABAergic inhibition. Bromazepam has a long half-life of approximately 20 hours.
Indications
For the treatment of anxiety and tension states.
Dosage
According to the professional information. The tablets are taken one to three times a day. The duration of treatment should be kept as short as possible and not exceed three months.
Abuse
Like other benzodiazepines, bromazepam can be abused as a depressant narcotic. Abuse is dangerous, especially in combination with other depressant and respiratory depressant medications and with alcohol.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Severe respiratory failure
- Sleep apnea
- Myasthenia gravis
- Severe hepatic insufficiency
- Dependence on CNS depressant substances including alcohol.
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Bromazepam is metabolized by CYP450. Drug-drug interactions have been described with central depressant drugs, alcohol, muscle relaxants, and CYP inhibitors.
Adverse effects
The most common potential adverse effects include fatigue, dullness, dizziness, drowsiness, lowering of blood pressure, impaired concentration, and impaired reaction time. Withdrawal symptoms may occur with rapid discontinuation. Bromazepam may be addictive.
