How oxazepam works
Oxazepam is a drug from the benzodiazepine group. As such, it has a dose-dependent calming (sedative), anxiolytic, sleep-promoting, muscle-relaxing and anticonvulsant effect. The effect is mediated by binding to an important docking site (receptor) for nerve cells, the so-called GABA receptor (gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor).
The human nervous system has various messenger substances (neurotransmitters) that can have an activating or inhibiting effect. Normally, they are in a balanced equilibrium and ensure an appropriate response to external circumstances such as rest or stress.
One of these neurotransmitters, GABA, has an inhibitory effect on the nervous system as soon as it binds to its receptors. Oxazepam enhances the effect of GABA, resulting in a primarily anxiolytic and calming effect.
Absorption, breakdown and excretion
Oxazepam is absorbed slowly but almost completely from the intestine into the blood after being taken by mouth (perorally). It is then distributed throughout the body and partially accumulates in fatty tissue.
The active substance is broken down in the liver. The degradation products are mainly excreted via the kidneys.
When is oxazepam used?
The areas of application (indications) for oxazepam include
- Anxiety, tension and agitation (chronic and acute)
- Insomnia
How oxazepam is used
Medication containing oxazepam is usually taken in the form of tablets with sufficient liquid (preferably a large glass of tap water). It is taken throughout the day for anxiety. The dosage is usually between 30 and 60 milligrams.
For sleep disorders, the active ingredient should be taken shortly before bedtime in order to reduce the main effect on sleep. Normally ten to 30 milligrams is sufficient.
Children, elderly patients and patients with liver dysfunction, circulatory problems or breathing difficulties are given a lower dose.
Medication with oxazepam should be discontinued “gradually”. This means that the dose of oxazepam is gradually reduced in order to largely avoid withdrawal symptoms.
What side effects does oxazepam have?
Very frequently, i.e. in more than ten percent of those treated, oxazepam can cause side effects such as drowsiness, headaches, drowsiness, prolonged reaction time, concentration problems and reduced blood pressure.
More rarely, gastrointestinal complaints and breathing difficulties may occur.
The effect as a sleeping pill can last beyond the night, so that attention should be paid to the individual reaction to the medicine, especially in the morning after taking it in the evening.
What should be considered when taking oxazepam?
Contraindications
Medication containing oxazepam must not be used in the following cases
- Increased risk of addiction
- Myasthenia gravis (pathological muscle weakness)
- Special forms of ataxia (disorder of movement coordination)
Particular caution is required if the person being treated suffers from respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases or depression.
Interactions
Medications containing oxazepam and the following substances can increase each other’s effects:
- Sedatives and sleeping pills (such as diphenhydramine, benzodiazepines)
- Anticonvulsants (such as carbamazepine)
- Antidepressants (such as fluoxetine or sertraline)
- Muscle relaxants (such as baclofen or flupirtine)
Ability to drive and operate machinery
Medication containing oxazepam strongly impairs the ability to react. Experts therefore recommend that patients do not actively participate in road traffic or operate heavy machinery. This applies in particular in combination with alcohol, as the effect is then intensified.
Age restrictions
In elderly patients or those with impaired renal function, it may be necessary to reduce the dose of oxazepam.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Medication containing oxazepam should only be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding if absolutely necessary. If the active substance is taken shortly before birth, withdrawal symptoms may occur in the newborn after birth (“floppy infant syndrome”).
Comparatively small amounts of the active ingredient pass into breast milk. Nevertheless, sedation of the infant is possible. Single doses probably do not require a break from breastfeeding.
Prolonged use should be avoided if possible and the infant should be monitored for side effects. If necessary, switch to bottle feeding.
How to obtain medication with oxazepam
Medication containing oxazepam is only available on prescription in Germany, Austria and Switzerland, as its use requires strict medical supervision. They can therefore only be obtained from pharmacies with a doctor’s prescription.
How long has oxazepam been known?
Oxazepam has been known since 1965 and has been used successfully in the treatment of restlessness ever since. Although the active ingredient is considered to be well tolerated, there is a high risk of quickly developing dependency symptoms.
