Products
Prazepam is commercially available in tablet form (Demetrin). It has been approved in many countries since 1977.
Structure and properties
Prazepam (C19H17ClN2O, Mr = 324.8 g/mol) exists as a white crystalline powder that is practically insoluble in water. It carries a cyclopropyl group.
Effects
Prazepam (ATC N05BA11) has antianxiety, sedative, relaxant, and depressant properties. The effects are due to binding to specific receptors in the GABAergic transmitter system and hyperpolarization of the cell membrane.
Indications
For the treatment of anxiety, tension states, agitation, restlessness, increased irritability, mood lability, and psychoneurotic and -somatic disorders.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. Tablets may be taken once daily due to the long half-life of 50 to 80 hours. The usual daily dose for adults is 10 to 30 mg.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Acute [narrow-angle glaucoma>glaucoma]
- Dependence history
- Myasthenia gravis
- Severe respiratory insufficiency
- Sleep apnea syndrome
- Severe hepatic insufficiency
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Prazepam is metabolized by CYP3A4 and CYP2C19. Corresponding drug-drug interactions are possible. Other interactions may occur with central depressant drugs, muscle relaxants, contraceptives, and clozapine.
Adverse effects
The most common potential adverse effects include drowsiness, fatigue, and prolonged reaction time. Other common side effects include joint pain, dry mouth, indigestion, palpitation, dizziness, lightheadedness, ataxia, headache, tremor, slurred speech, stimulation, muscular hypotension, feeling weak, confusion, vivid dreams, increased sweating, skin rash, and blurred vision. Benzodiazepines can be addictive and cause withdrawal symptoms when discontinued rapidly.
