Oxazepam



Oxazepam





(ox a’ ze pam)

Apo-Oxazepam (CAN)

PREGNANCY CATEGORY D

CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE C-IV


Drug Classes

Anxiolytic

Benzodiazepine


Therapeutic Actions

Exact mechanisms not understood; acts mainly at subcortical levels of the CNS, leaving the cortex relatively unaffected; main sites of action may be the limbic system and reticular formation; benzodiazepines potentiate the effects of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter; anxiolytic effects occur at doses well below those needed to cause sedation, ataxia.


Indications



  • Management of anxiety disorders or for short-term relief of symptoms of anxiety; anxiety associated with depression also is responsive


  • Management of anxiety, tension, agitation, and irritability in older patients


  • Alcoholics with acute tremulousness, inebriation, or anxiety associated with alcohol withdrawal


  • Unlabeled use: Irritable bowel syndrome



Available Forms

Capsules—10, 15, 30 mg


Dosages

Increase dosage gradually to avoid adverse effects.

Adults

10–15 mg PO or up to 30 mg PO tid–qid, depending on severity of symptoms of anxiety. The higher dosage range is recommended in alcoholics.

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Jul 21, 2016 | Posted by in NURSING | Comments Off on Oxazepam

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