oxazepam (Rx)

Brand and Other Names:Serax

Dosing & Uses

AdultPediatricGeriatric

Dosage Forms & Strengths

capsule: Schedule IV

  • 10mg
  • 15mg
  • 30mg

Anxiety

Mild/moderate: 10-15 mg PO q6-8hr PRN

Severe, agitation or assoc with depression: 15-30 mg PO q6-8hr PRN

Alcohol Withdrawal

15-30 mg PO q6-8hr PRN

Dosage Forms & Strengths

capsule: Schedule IV

  • 10mg
  • 15mg
  • 30mg

Anxiety

<6 years: Not recommended

6-12 years: Not established; use with caution

>12 years

  • Mild/moderate: 10-15 mg PO q6-8hr PRN
  • Severe, agitation or assoc with depression: 15-30 mg PO q6-8hr PRN

Drug of choice in elderly when benzodiazepine indicated because of short half-life

Anxiety

10 mg q8-12hr; may gradually increase to total dose of 30-45 mg/day PRN

Ethanol Withdrawal

10-30 mg PO q8-12hr PRN

Next:

Interactions

Interaction Checker

and oxazepam

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              • benzhydrocodone/acetaminophen

                benzhydrocodone/acetaminophen, oxazepam. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death may result if coadministered. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs in patients for whom other treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Monitor closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation.

                benzhydrocodone/acetaminophen and oxazepam both increase sedation. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Limit use to patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate

              • buprenorphine subdermal implant

                buprenorphine subdermal implant and oxazepam both increase sedation. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Limit use to patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate

              • calcium/magnesium/potassium/sodium oxybates

                oxazepam, calcium/magnesium/potassium/sodium oxybates. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death may result if coadministered. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs in patients for whom other treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Monitor closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation.

              • hydrocodone

                hydrocodone, oxazepam. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death may result if coadministered. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs in patients for whom other treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Monitor closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation.

              • metoclopramide intranasal

                oxazepam, metoclopramide intranasal. Either increases effects of the other by Other (see comment). Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Comment: Avoid use of metoclopramide intranasal or interacting drug, depending on importance of drug to patient.

              • olopatadine intranasal

                oxazepam and olopatadine intranasal both increase sedation. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Coadministration increases risk of CNS depression, which can lead to additive impairment of psychomotor performance and cause daytime impairment.

              • selinexor

                selinexor, oxazepam. unspecified interaction mechanism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Patients treated with selinexor may experience neurological toxicities. Avoid taking selinexor with other medications that may cause dizziness or confusion.

              • sodium oxybate

                oxazepam, sodium oxybate. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death may result if coadministered. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs in patients for whom other treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Monitor closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation.

              • sufentanil SL

                sufentanil SL, oxazepam. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Coadministration may result in hypotension, profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs in patients for whom other treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Monitor closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation.

              • valerian

                valerian and oxazepam both increase sedation. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug.

              Monitor Closely (201)

              • acrivastine

                acrivastine and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • albuterol

                oxazepam increases and albuterol decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • alfentanil

                oxazepam and alfentanil both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • alprazolam

                alprazolam and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • amisulpride

                amisulpride and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • amitriptyline

                oxazepam and amitriptyline both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • amobarbital

                amobarbital and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • amoxapine

                oxazepam and amoxapine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • apomorphine

                oxazepam and apomorphine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • arformoterol

                oxazepam increases and arformoterol decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • aripiprazole

                oxazepam and aripiprazole both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • armodafinil

                oxazepam increases and armodafinil decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • asenapine

                asenapine and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • asenapine transdermal

                asenapine transdermal and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • avapritinib

                avapritinib and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • azelastine

                azelastine and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • baclofen

                oxazepam and baclofen both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • belladonna and opium

                oxazepam and belladonna and opium both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • benperidol

                oxazepam and benperidol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • benzphetamine

                oxazepam increases and benzphetamine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • brexanolone

                brexanolone, oxazepam. Either increases toxicity of the other by sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • brexpiprazole

                brexpiprazole and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • brimonidine

                brimonidine and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • brivaracetam

                brivaracetam and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • brompheniramine

                brompheniramine and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • buprenorphine

                oxazepam and buprenorphine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • buprenorphine buccal

                oxazepam and buprenorphine buccal both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • buprenorphine subdermal implant

                oxazepam increases toxicity of buprenorphine subdermal implant by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Studies have shown that the combination of benzodiazepines and buprenorphine altered the usual ceiling effect on buprenorphine-induced respiratory depression, making the respiratory effects of buprenorphine appear similar to those of full opioid agonists. There have been postmarketing reports of coma and death with coadministration of buprenorphine and benzodiazepines. In many, but not all of these cases, buprenorphine was misused by self-injection. If a benzodiazepine must be used for an indication other than seizures, lower the benzodiazepine initial dose and cautiously titrate to clinical response.

              • buprenorphine, long-acting injection

                oxazepam increases toxicity of buprenorphine, long-acting injection by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration of buprenorphine and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants increases risk of adverse reactions including overdose, respiratory depression, and death. Cessation of benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants is preferred in most cases. In some cases, monitoring at a higher level of care for tapering CNS depressants may be appropriate. In others, gradually tapering a patient off of a prescribed benzodiazepine or other CNS depressant or decreasing to the lowest effective dose may be appropriate.

              • butabarbital

                butabarbital and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • butalbital

                butalbital and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • butorphanol

                oxazepam and butorphanol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • caffeine

                oxazepam increases and caffeine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • carbinoxamine

                carbinoxamine and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • carisoprodol

                oxazepam and carisoprodol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • cenobamate

                cenobamate, oxazepam. Either increases effects of the other by sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • chloral hydrate

                oxazepam and chloral hydrate both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • chlordiazepoxide

                chlordiazepoxide and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • chlorpheniramine

                chlorpheniramine and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • chlorpromazine

                oxazepam and chlorpromazine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • chlorzoxazone

                oxazepam and chlorzoxazone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • cinnarizine

                cinnarizine and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • clemastine

                clemastine and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • clobazam

                oxazepam, clobazam. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Concomitant administration can increase the potential for CNS effects (e.g., increased sedation or respiratory depression).

              • clomipramine

                oxazepam and clomipramine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • clonazepam

                clonazepam and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • clonidine

                clonidine, oxazepam. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration enhances CNS depressant effects.

              • clorazepate

                clorazepate and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • clozapine

                oxazepam and clozapine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • codeine

                oxazepam and codeine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • cyclizine

                cyclizine and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • cyclobenzaprine

                oxazepam and cyclobenzaprine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • cyproheptadine

                cyproheptadine and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • dantrolene

                oxazepam and dantrolene both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • daridorexant

                oxazepam and daridorexant both increase sedation. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration increases risk of CNS depression, which can lead to additive impairment of psychomotor performance and cause daytime impairment.

              • desflurane

                desflurane and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • desipramine

                oxazepam and desipramine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • deutetrabenazine

                oxazepam and deutetrabenazine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • dexchlorpheniramine

                dexchlorpheniramine and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • dexfenfluramine

                oxazepam increases and dexfenfluramine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • dexmedetomidine

                oxazepam and dexmedetomidine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • dexmethylphenidate

                oxazepam increases and dexmethylphenidate decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • dextroamphetamine

                oxazepam increases and dextroamphetamine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • dextromoramide

                oxazepam and dextromoramide both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • diamorphine

                oxazepam and diamorphine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • diazepam

                diazepam and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • diazepam intranasal

                diazepam intranasal, oxazepam. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration may potentiate the CNS-depressant effects of each drug.

              • diethylpropion

                oxazepam increases and diethylpropion decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • difelikefalin

                difelikefalin and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • difenoxin hcl

                oxazepam and difenoxin hcl both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • dimenhydrinate

                dimenhydrinate and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • diphenhydramine

                diphenhydramine and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • diphenoxylate hcl

                oxazepam and diphenoxylate hcl both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • dipipanone

                oxazepam and dipipanone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • dobutamine

                oxazepam increases and dobutamine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • dopamine

                oxazepam increases and dopamine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • dopexamine

                oxazepam increases and dopexamine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • dosulepin

                oxazepam and dosulepin both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • doxepin

                oxazepam and doxepin both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • doxylamine

                oxazepam and doxylamine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • droperidol

                oxazepam and droperidol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • ephedrine

                oxazepam increases and ephedrine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • epinephrine

                oxazepam increases and epinephrine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • epinephrine racemic

                oxazepam increases and epinephrine racemic decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • esketamine intranasal

                esketamine intranasal, oxazepam. Either increases toxicity of the other by sedation. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.

              • estazolam

                estazolam and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • ethanol

                oxazepam and ethanol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • etomidate

                etomidate and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • fenfluramine

                oxazepam increases and fenfluramine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • flibanserin

                oxazepam and flibanserin both increase sedation. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Risk for sedation increased if flibanserin is coadministration with other CNS depressants.

              • fluphenazine

                oxazepam and fluphenazine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • flurazepam

                flurazepam and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • formoterol

                oxazepam increases and formoterol decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • gabapentin

                gabapentin, oxazepam. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration of CNS depressants can result in serious, life-threatening, and fatal respiratory depression. Use lowest dose possible and monitor for respiratory depression and sedation.

              • gabapentin enacarbil

                gabapentin enacarbil, oxazepam. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration of CNS depressants can result in serious, life-threatening, and fatal respiratory depression. Use lowest dose possible and monitor for respiratory depression and sedation.

              • ganaxolone

                oxazepam and ganaxolone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • haloperidol

                oxazepam and haloperidol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • hyaluronidase

                hyaluronidase, oxazepam. Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Drug combination has been found to be incompatible.

              • hydromorphone

                oxazepam and hydromorphone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • hydroxyzine

                hydroxyzine and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • iloperidone

                oxazepam and iloperidone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • imipramine

                oxazepam and imipramine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • isoproterenol

                oxazepam increases and isoproterenol decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • ketamine

                ketamine and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • ketotifen, ophthalmic

                oxazepam and ketotifen, ophthalmic both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • lasmiditan

                lasmiditan, oxazepam. Either increases effects of the other by sedation. Use Caution/Monitor. Coadministration of lasmiditan and other CNS depressant drugs, including alcohol have not been evaluated in clinical studies. Lasmiditan may cause sedation, as well as other cognitive and/or neuropsychiatric adverse reactions.

              • lemborexant

                lemborexant, oxazepam. Either increases effects of the other by sedation. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Dosage adjustment may be necessary if lemborexant is coadministered with other CNS depressants because of potentially additive effects.

              • levalbuterol

                oxazepam increases and levalbuterol decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • levorphanol

                oxazepam and levorphanol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • lisdexamfetamine

                oxazepam increases and lisdexamfetamine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • lofepramine

                oxazepam and lofepramine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • lofexidine

                oxazepam and lofexidine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • loprazolam

                loprazolam and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • lorazepam

                lorazepam and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • lormetazepam

                lormetazepam and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • loxapine

                oxazepam and loxapine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • loxapine inhaled

                oxazepam and loxapine inhaled both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • lurasidone

                lurasidone, oxazepam. Either increases toxicity of the other by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Potential for increased CNS depressant effects when used concurrently; monitor for increased adverse effects and toxicity.

              • maprotiline

                oxazepam and maprotiline both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • marijuana

                oxazepam and marijuana both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • melatonin

                oxazepam and melatonin both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • meperidine

                oxazepam and meperidine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • meprobamate

                oxazepam and meprobamate both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • metaproterenol

                oxazepam increases and metaproterenol decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • metaxalone

                oxazepam and metaxalone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • methadone

                oxazepam and methadone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • methamphetamine

                oxazepam increases and methamphetamine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • methocarbamol

                oxazepam and methocarbamol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • methylenedioxymethamphetamine

                oxazepam increases and methylenedioxymethamphetamine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • midazolam

                midazolam and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • midazolam intranasal

                midazolam intranasal, oxazepam. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Concomitant use of barbiturates, alcohol, or other CNS depressants may increase the risk of hypoventilation, airway obstruction, desaturation, or apnea and may contribute to profound and/or prolonged drug effect.

              • midodrine

                oxazepam increases and midodrine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • mirtazapine

                oxazepam and mirtazapine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • modafinil

                oxazepam increases and modafinil decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • morphine

                oxazepam and morphine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • motherwort

                oxazepam and motherwort both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • moxonidine

                oxazepam and moxonidine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • nabilone

                oxazepam and nabilone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • nalbuphine

                oxazepam and nalbuphine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • norepinephrine

                oxazepam increases and norepinephrine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • nortriptyline

                oxazepam and nortriptyline both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • olanzapine

                oxazepam and olanzapine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • oliceridine

                oliceridine, oxazepam. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death may result if coadministered. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs in patients for whom other treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Monitor closely for signs of respiratory depression and sedation.

              • opium tincture

                oxazepam and opium tincture both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • orphenadrine

                oxazepam and orphenadrine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • oxycodone

                oxazepam and oxycodone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • oxymorphone

                oxazepam and oxymorphone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • paliperidone

                oxazepam and paliperidone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • papaveretum

                oxazepam and papaveretum both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • papaverine

                oxazepam and papaverine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • pentazocine

                oxazepam and pentazocine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • pentobarbital

                pentobarbital and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • perampanel

                perampanel and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • perphenazine

                oxazepam and perphenazine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • phendimetrazine

                oxazepam increases and phendimetrazine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • phenobarbital

                phenobarbital and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • phentermine

                oxazepam increases and phentermine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • phenylephrine

                oxazepam increases and phenylephrine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • phenylephrine PO

                oxazepam increases and phenylephrine PO decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor. .

              • pholcodine

                oxazepam and pholcodine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • pimozide

                oxazepam and pimozide both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • pirbuterol

                oxazepam increases and pirbuterol decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • pregabalin

                pregabalin, oxazepam. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration of CNS depressants can result in serious, life-threatening, and fatal respiratory depression. Use lowest dose possible and monitor for respiratory depression and sedation.

              • primidone

                primidone and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • prochlorperazine

                oxazepam and prochlorperazine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • promethazine

                promethazine and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • propofol

                propofol and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • propylhexedrine

                oxazepam increases and propylhexedrine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • protriptyline

                oxazepam and protriptyline both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • quazepam

                oxazepam and quazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • quetiapine

                oxazepam and quetiapine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • ramelteon

                oxazepam and ramelteon both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • remimazolam

                remimazolam, oxazepam. Either increases toxicity of the other by sedation. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Coadministration may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and/or death. Continuously monitor vital signs during sedation and recovery period if coadministered. Carefully titrate remimazolam dose if administered with opioid analgesics and/or sedative/hypnotics.

              • risperidone

                oxazepam and risperidone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • salmeterol

                oxazepam increases and salmeterol decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • scullcap

                oxazepam and scullcap both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • secobarbital

                secobarbital and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • sevoflurane

                sevoflurane and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • shepherd's purse

                oxazepam and shepherd's purse both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • stiripentol

                stiripentol, oxazepam. Either increases effects of the other by sedation. Use Caution/Monitor. Concomitant use stiripentol with other CNS depressants, including alcohol, may increase the risk of sedation and somnolence.

              • sufentanil

                oxazepam and sufentanil both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • suvorexant

                suvorexant and oxazepam both increase sedation. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Dosage adjustments of suvorexant and concomitant CNS depressants may be necessary

              • tapentadol

                oxazepam and tapentadol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • teduglutide

                teduglutide increases levels of oxazepam by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Comment: Teduglutide may increase absorption of concomitant PO medications; caution with with drugs requiring titration or those with a narrow therapeutic index; dose adjustment may be necessary.

              • temazepam

                oxazepam and temazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • terbutaline

                oxazepam increases and terbutaline decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • thioridazine

                oxazepam and thioridazine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • thiothixene

                oxazepam and thiothixene both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • topiramate

                oxazepam and topiramate both increase sedation. Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely.

              • tramadol

                oxazepam and tramadol both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • trazodone

                oxazepam and trazodone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • triazolam

                oxazepam and triazolam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • triclofos

                oxazepam and triclofos both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • trifluoperazine

                oxazepam and trifluoperazine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • trimipramine

                oxazepam and trimipramine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • triprolidine

                triprolidine and oxazepam both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • xylometazoline

                oxazepam increases and xylometazoline decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • yohimbine

                oxazepam increases and yohimbine decreases sedation. Effect of interaction is not clear, use caution. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • ziconotide

                oxazepam and ziconotide both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • ziprasidone

                oxazepam and ziprasidone both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              • zotepine

                oxazepam and zotepine both increase sedation. Use Caution/Monitor.

              Minor (15)

              • brimonidine

                brimonidine increases effects of oxazepam by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Increased CNS depression.

              • eucalyptus

                oxazepam and eucalyptus both increase sedation. Minor/Significance Unknown.

              • fleroxacin

                fleroxacin increases levels of oxazepam by decreasing metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

              • gemifloxacin

                gemifloxacin increases levels of oxazepam by decreasing metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

              • green tea

                green tea decreases effects of oxazepam by pharmacodynamic antagonism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Caffeine component of green tea may decrease sedative effects of benzodiazepines.

              • labetalol

                labetalol increases effects of oxazepam by decreasing metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

              • levofloxacin

                levofloxacin increases levels of oxazepam by decreasing metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

              • metoprolol

                metoprolol increases effects of oxazepam by decreasing metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

              • moxifloxacin

                moxifloxacin increases levels of oxazepam by decreasing metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

              • ofloxacin

                ofloxacin increases levels of oxazepam by decreasing metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

              • propranolol

                propranolol increases effects of oxazepam by decreasing metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

              • rifabutin

                rifabutin decreases levels of oxazepam by increasing metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.

              • sage

                oxazepam and sage both increase sedation. Minor/Significance Unknown.

              • vinpocetine

                oxazepam increases effects of vinpocetine by unspecified interaction mechanism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Desirable interaction enhanced memory improvement (based on preliminary trial).

              • zolpidem

                zolpidem, oxazepam. Either increases effects of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Minor/Significance Unknown. Additive CNS depression.

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              Adverse Effects

              Frequency Not Defined

              Sedation

              Ataxia

              Confusion

              Memory impairment

              Dizziness

              Drowsiness

              Muscle weakness

              Syncope edema

              Leukopenia, blood dyscrasias

              Decreased libido

              Rash

              Incontinence

              Menstrual irregularities

              Jaundice

              Blured vision; diplopia

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              Warnings

              Black Box Warnings

              Concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids may result in profound respiratory depression, coma, and death; administer concomitantly when there are no alternative options; limit dosages and durations to minimum required; monitor for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation

              Continued use of benzodiazepines may lead to clinically significant physical dependence; longer treatment duration and higher daily dose increases risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms; rapid dose reduction or abrupt discontinuation after continued use may result in withdrawal reactions that can be life-threatening; to reduce risk of withdrawal reactions gradual taper recommended when discontinuing drug or reducing dosage

              Addiction, abuse, and misuse

              • On September 2020, FDA addressed serious risks of benzodiazepine addiction, abuse, and misuse, which can lead to overdose and death
              • Physical dependence can occur when taken steadily for several days to weeks, even as prescribed
              • Stopping abruptly or reducing dosage too quickly can result in withdrawal reactions, including seizures, which can be life-threatening
              • Assess each patient’s risk prior to prescribing and monitor regularly for the development of these behaviors or conditions

              Contraindications

              Documented hypersensitivity

              Cautions

              Use caution in respiratory diseases (COPD), sleep apnea, depression, suicide ideation, history of drug abuse

              Continued use of benzodiazepines may lead to clinically significant physical dependence; longer treatment duration and higher daily dose increases risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms; rapid dose reduction or abrupt discontinuation after continued use may result in withdrawal reactions that can be life threatening; to reduce risk of withdrawal reactions gradual taper recommended when discontinuing drug or reducing dosage

              Use caution in patients with hepatic impairment, depression, respiratory disease, and debilitated and elderly patients at risk of falls and traumatic injuries

              Not for use as analgesic, antipsychotic, or antidepressant

              Patients should be warned that the effects of alcohol or other depressant drugs may be additive to those of oxazepam, which may require adjusting dosage or elimination of such patients

              Anterograde amnesia reported with benzodiazepines

              Sleep-related hazardous activities, including sleep-driving, making phone calls, cooking, and eating food reported with benzodiazepines

              Hypotension reported; use caution in patients with cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease or patients who do not tolerate transient decreases in blood pressure

              Paradoxical reactions, including aggressive and hyperactive behavior reported with benzodiazepines, especially in pediatric/adolescent or psychiatric patients

              Physical and psychological dependence

              • Withdrawal symptoms, similar in character to those noted with barbiturates and alcohol, including tremor, convulsions, vomiting, abdominal and muscle cramps, and sweating reported following abrupt discontinuation of oxazepam
              • Withdrawal reported to be more severe in patients who received excessive doses over extended period; milder withdrawal symptoms, including dysphoria and insomnia reported following abrupt discontinuation of benzodiazepines taken continuously at therapeutic levels for several months
              • Avoid abrupt discontinuation after extended therapy; dosage tapering should be scheduled under careful surveillance when receiving oxazepam or other psychotropic agents because of predisposition of such patients to habituation and dependence
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              Pregnancy & Lactation

              Pregnancy Category: D

              Lactation: Avoid during breastfeeding

              Minor tranquilizers should be avoided in 1st trimester of pregnancy due to increased risk of congenital malformations

              Maternal use shortly before delivery is associated with floppy infant syndrome (good and consistent evidence)

              Prenatal benzodiazepine exposure slightly increased oral cleft risk (limited or inconsistent evidence)

              Pregnancy Categories

              A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.

              B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk.

              C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done.

              D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk.

              X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist.

              NA: Information not available.

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              Pharmacology

              Mechanism of Action

              Binds receptors at several sites within the CNS, including the limbic system and reticular formation. Effects may be mediated through GABA receptor system. Increase in neuronal membrane permeability to chloride ions enhances the inhibitory effects of GABA; the shift in chloride ions causes hyperpolarization (less excitability) and stabilization of the nuronal membrane

              Pharmacokinetics

              Half-life elimination: 2.8-5.7 hr

              Peak plasma time: 3 hr

              Peak plasma concentration: 450 ng/mL

              Metabolism: Glucuronic acid conjugation

              Metabolites: No active metabolites

              Protein binding: 86-99%

              Excretion: Urine

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              Images

              BRAND FORM. UNIT PRICE PILL IMAGE
              oxazepam oral
              -
              30 mg capsule
              oxazepam oral
              -
              15 mg capsule
              oxazepam oral
              -
              10 mg capsule
              oxazepam oral
              -
              10 mg capsule

              Copyright © 2010 First DataBank, Inc.

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              Patient Handout

              Patient Education
              oxazepam oral

              OXAZEPAM - ORAL

              (ox-AZ-eh-pam)

              COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Serax

              WARNING: Oxazepam has a risk for abuse and addiction, which can lead to overdose and death. Taking this medication with alcohol or other drugs that can cause drowsiness or breathing problems (especially opioid medications such as codeine, hydrocodone) may cause very serious side effects, including death. To lower your risk, your doctor should have you take the smallest dose of oxazepam that works, and take it for the shortest possible time. Be sure you know how to take oxazepam and what other drugs you should avoid taking with it. See also Drug Interactions section. Get medical help right away if any of these very serious side effects occur: slow/shallow breathing, unusual lightheadedness, severe drowsiness/dizziness, difficulty waking up.Suddenly stopping this medication may cause serious (possibly fatal) withdrawal, especially if you have used it for a long time or in high doses. To prevent withdrawal, your doctor may lower your dose slowly. Tell your doctor or pharmacist right away if you have any withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, trouble sleeping, restlessness, hallucinations/confusion, depression, nausea, or seizures. Withdrawal symptoms may sometimes last weeks to months.

              USES: Oxazepam is used to treat anxiety and also acute alcohol withdrawal. This medication belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines which act on the brain and nerves (central nervous system) to produce a calming and an anti-seizure effect. It works by enhancing the effects of a certain natural substance in the body (GABA).This medication may also be used for sleep (insomnia)

              HOW TO USE: See also Warning section.Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking oxazepam and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor. The dosage is based on your medical condition, age, and response to therapy.When this medication is used for a long time, it may not work as well. Talk with your doctor if this medication stops working well.Though it helps many people, this medication may sometimes cause addiction. This risk may be higher if you have a substance use disorder (such as overuse of or addiction to drugs/alcohol). Take this medication exactly as prescribed to lower the risk of addiction. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.

              SIDE EFFECTS: See also Warning section.Drowsiness, dizziness, blurred vision, or headache may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: mental/mood changes, trouble speaking, clumsiness, trouble walking, decreased/increased interest in sex, tremor, trouble urinating, sleep disturbances, fainting, unusual tiredness, signs of liver disease (such as nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine), signs of infection (such as sore throat that doesn't go away, fever).A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

              PRECAUTIONS: Before taking oxazepam, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other benzodiazepines (such as diazepam, temazepam); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, kidney disease, lung/breathing problems (such as COPD, sleep apnea), drug or alcohol abuse.This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or blur your vision. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy or drowsy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness or clear vision until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially drowsiness. This side effect can increase the risk of falling.Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. You should not become pregnant while using oxazepam. Oxazepam may harm an unborn baby. Newborn babies of mothers who use this medication late in pregnancy may have symptoms such as slow/shallow breathing, nonstop crying, shaking, or trouble feeding. If you become pregnant, talk to your doctor right away about the risks and benefits of this medication.This drug passes into breast milk and may have undesirable effects on a nursing infant. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

              DRUG INTERACTIONS: See also Warning section.Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.Some products that may interact with this drug are: clozapine, digoxin, kava, orlistat, sodium oxybate.The risk of serious side effects (such as slow/shallow breathing, severe drowsiness/dizziness) may be increased if this medication is taken with other products that may also cause drowsiness or breathing problems. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking other products such as opioid pain or cough relievers (such as codeine, hydrocodone), alcohol, marijuana (cannabis), other drugs for sleep or anxiety (such as alprazolam, lorazepam, zolpidem), muscle relaxants (such as carisoprodol, cyclobenzaprine), or antihistamines (such as cetirizine, diphenhydramine).Check the labels on all your medicines (such as allergy or cough-and-cold products) because they may contain ingredients that cause drowsiness. Ask your pharmacist about using those products safely.Smoking can decrease the effectiveness of this drug (through liver enzyme induction). Tell your doctor if you smoke or if you have recently stopped smoking because your dose may need to be adjusted.

              OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe drowsiness, slowed/reduced reflexes, slowed breathing, fainting, loss of consciousness.

              NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. Sharing it is against the law.If this drug is used for an extended period of time, lab and/or medical tests (such as liver function, complete blood count) may be done while you are taking this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.

              MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Use your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

              STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.

              Information last revised February 2023. Copyright(c) 2023 First Databank, Inc.

              IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

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              Formulary

              FormularyPatient Discounts

              Adding plans allows you to compare formulary status to other drugs in the same class.

              To view formulary information first create a list of plans. Your list will be saved and can be edited at any time.

              Adding plans allows you to:

              • View the formulary and any restrictions for each plan.
              • Manage and view all your plans together – even plans in different states.
              • Compare formulary status to other drugs in the same class.
              • Access your plan list on any device – mobile or desktop.

              The above information is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. Individual plans may vary and formulary information changes. Contact the applicable plan provider for the most current information.

              Tier Description
              1 This drug is available at the lowest co-pay. Most commonly, these are generic drugs.
              2 This drug is available at a middle level co-pay. Most commonly, these are "preferred" (on formulary) brand drugs.
              3 This drug is available at a higher level co-pay. Most commonly, these are "non-preferred" brand drugs.
              4 This drug is available at a higher level co-pay. Most commonly, these are "non-preferred" brand drugs or specialty prescription products.
              5 This drug is available at a higher level co-pay. Most commonly, these are "non-preferred" brand drugs or specialty prescription products.
              6 This drug is available at a higher level co-pay. Most commonly, these are "non-preferred" brand drugs or specialty prescription products.
              NC NOT COVERED – Drugs that are not covered by the plan.
              Code Definition
              PA Prior Authorization
              Drugs that require prior authorization. This restriction requires that specific clinical criteria be met prior to the approval of the prescription.
              QL Quantity Limits
              Drugs that have quantity limits associated with each prescription. This restriction typically limits the quantity of the drug that will be covered.
              ST Step Therapy
              Drugs that have step therapy associated with each prescription. This restriction typically requires that certain criteria be met prior to approval for the prescription.
              OR Other Restrictions
              Drugs that have restrictions other than prior authorization, quantity limits, and step therapy associated with each prescription.
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              Medscape prescription drug monographs are based on FDA-approved labeling information, unless otherwise noted, combined with additional data derived from primary medical literature.