Oxazepam
Oxazepam (Serax)
Oxazepam
(ox- AY-zeh-pam)
Pregnancy Category: D Apo-Oxazepam Novoxapam Oxpam PMS-Oxazepam Serax Zapex (C-IV) (Rx)

Classification: Antianxiety agent, benzodiazepine

See Also: See also Tranquilizers, Antimanic Drugs, and Hypnotics .

Action/Kinetics: Absorbed more slowly than most benzodiazepines. Peak plasma levels: 2-4 hr. t 1/2: 5-20 hr. Broken down in the liver to inactive metabolites, which are excreted through both the urine and feces. Reputed to cause less drowsiness than chlordiazepoxide.

Uses: Anxiety, tension, anxiety with depression. Adjunct in acute alcohol withdrawal.

Special Concerns: Dosage has not been established in children less than 12 years of age; use is not recommended in children less than 6 years of age.

Additional Side Effects: Paradoxical reactions characterized by sleep disorders and hyperexcitability during first weeks of therapy. Hypotension after parenteral administration.

How Supplied: Capsule: 10 mg, 15 mg, 30 mg; Tablet: 15 mg

Dosage
?Capsules, Tablets Anxiety, mild to moderate.
Adults: 10-30 mg t.i.d.-q.i.d.
Anxiety, tension, irritability, agitation.
Geriatric and debilitated clients: 10 mg t.i.d.; can be increased to 15 mg t.i.d.-q.i.d.
Alcohol withdrawal.
Adults: 15-30 mg t.i.d.-q.i.d.