Concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Follow patients for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
The use of benzodiazepines, including oxazepam, exposes users to risks of abuse, misuse, and addiction, which can lead to overdose or death. Abuse and misuse of benzodiazepines commonly involve concomitant use of other medications, alcohol, and/or illicit substances, which is associated with an increased frequency of serious adverse outcomes. Before prescribing oxazepam and throughout treatment, assess each patient's risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction.
The continued use of benzodiazepines, including oxazepam, may lead to clinically significant physical dependence. The risks of dependence and withdrawal increase with longer treatment duration and higher daily dose. Abrupt discontinuation or rapid dosage reduction of oxazepam after continued use may precipitate acute withdrawal reactions, which can be life-threatening. To reduce the risk of withdrawal reactions, use a gradual taper to discontinue oxazepam or reduce the dosage.
Dosage guidance:
Safety: Reduce dose or avoid use in patients receiving opioids or with significant chronic disease (eg, respiratory compromise) (Ref). Avoid use in patients with a history of substance use, misuse of medications, or depression (Ref).
Alcohol withdrawal syndrome (alternative agent):
Note : Withdrawal will progress at different rates in some patients; flexibility in dosing and duration is warranted (Ref). Regimens vary and depend on withdrawal history, degree of current withdrawal symptoms, blood alcohol concentration, and whether the patient is treated inpatient or in the ambulatory setting. Many facilities only treat alcohol withdrawal in the ambulatory setting if Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol, revised scale (CIWA-Ar) score is ≤15 and there is no history of withdrawal seizures or delirium tremens (Ref). Although longer-acting benzodiazepines are preferred in general, shorter-acting benzodiazepines, including oxazepam, may be preferable in patients with impaired liver function (Ref). The following are 2 suggested regimens.
Symptom-triggered regimen:
Note: Some experts recommend symptom-triggered regimen for patients with CIWA-Ar >15 (Ref).
Oral: 15 to 30 mg as needed per institution-specific protocol until appropriate sedation achieved; dose and frequency determined by withdrawal symptom severity using a validated severity assessment scale, such as the CIWA-Ar (Ref).
Fixed-dose regimen:
Note: Some experts recommend fixed-dose regimens for patients at risk for mild withdrawal (CIWA-Ar ≤15), particularly in an ambulatory setting where CIWA-Ar scores cannot be reliably administered. Hold doses for excessive sedation (Ref).
Day 1: Oral: 30 mg every 6 hours.
Day 2 and 3: Oral: 15 mg every 6 hours (Ref).
Breakthrough symptoms: Oral: May administer up to 5 additional as-needed 15 to 30 mg doses to be used over the 4-day treatment period for breakthrough symptoms (Ref).
Anxiety disorders (adjunctive therapy or monotherapy) (alternative agent):
Note: Generally used short term for symptom relief until preferred therapy (eg, serotonin reuptake inhibitor) is effective (eg, 4 to 6 weeks, followed by tapering). Long-term, low-dose therapy (eg, 7.5 mg/day) may be considered in select patients when other treatments are ineffective or poorly tolerated (Ref). Use with caution in patients with comorbid posttraumatic stress disorder; benzodiazepines may cause cognitive changes (Ref).
Oral: Initial: 10 to 15 mg 3 times daily (Ref); although most patients will experience relief with this dose, may increase daily dose based on response and tolerability in increments of 15 to 30 mg every 2 to 3 days to a total daily dose of 30 to 120 mg/day in 3 to 4 divided doses (Ref). Usual dosage: 45 to 60 mg/day in divided doses (Ref).
Discontinuation of therapy: Unless safety concerns require a more rapid withdrawal, gradually taper to detect reemerging symptoms and minimize rebound and withdrawal symptoms (Ref).
Low or moderate dose, no concerns for benzodiazepine use disorder: Taper total daily dose by 20% to 25% every week based on response and tolerability (taper increments will be limited by available dosage forms) (Ref).
Extended or high-dose therapy, or suspected benzodiazepine use disorder: Taper total daily dose by approximately 25% every 1 to 2 weeks based on response, tolerability, and individual patient factors (taper increments will be limited by available dosage forms) (Ref). Reduce dose more rapidly in the beginning and slow the dose reduction as the taper progresses because earlier stages of withdrawal are easier to tolerate (Ref). The optimal duration and taper increment will vary; up to 6 months may be necessary for some patients on higher doses, and a taper rate of 50% every week may be tolerated in some patients (Ref). For benzodiazepines with half-lives significantly <24 hours, including oxazepam, consider substituting an equivalent dose of a long-acting benzodiazepine to allow for a more gradual reduction in drug serum concentrations (Ref).
Dosage adjustment for concomitant therapy: Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling
Hemodialysis: Not dialyzable (0% to 5%) (Ref)
There are no dosage adjustment provided in the manufacturer's labeling; however, pharmacokinetic studies have shown that hepatic dysfunction is not expected to significantly decrease clearance (Ref).
Note: Avoid use, may be appropriate for anxiety disorders or ethanol withdrawal (Ref).
Anxiety disorders (adjunctive therapy or monotherapy): Oral: Initial: 10 mg 3 times daily. If necessary, increase cautiously to 15 mg 3 to 4 times daily.
Discontinuation of therapy: Refer to adult dosing.
Children >12 years and Adolescents: Refer to adult dosing.
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling.
Hemodialysis: Not dialyzable (0% to 5%) (Ref)
There are no dosage adjustments provided in the manufacturer's labeling; however, pharmacokinetic studies have shown that hepatic dysfunction is not expected to significantly decrease clearance (Ref).
The following adverse drug reactions and incidences are derived from product labeling unless otherwise specified. Frequency not defined.
Cardiovascular: Edema, hypotension, syncope
Central nervous system: Amnesia, ataxia, dizziness, drowsiness, drug dependence, dysarthria, euphoria, headache, lethargy, memory impairment, slurred speech, vertigo
Dermatologic: Maculopapular rash, morbilliform rash, urticaria
Endocrine & metabolic: Decreased libido, menstrual disease
Gastrointestinal: Nausea
Genitourinary: Urinary incontinence
Hematologic & oncologic: Hematologic disease, leukopenia
Hepatic: Jaundice
Hypersensitivity: Fixed drug eruption
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Hyporeflexia, tremor
Ophthalmic: Blurred vision, diplopia
Miscellaneous: Paradoxical central nervous system stimulation, paradoxical excitation
Hypersensitivity to oxazepam or any component of the formulation.
Canadian labeling: Additional contraindications (not in US labeling): Glaucoma (history of); myasthenia gravis; use in infants.
Concerns related to adverse effects:
• Anterograde amnesia: Benzodiazepines have been associated with anterograde amnesia (Nelson 1999).
• CNS depression: May cause CNS depression, which may impair physical or mental abilities; patients must be cautioned about performing tasks which require mental alertness (eg, operating machinery or driving).
• Hypotension: May cause hypotension (rare); use with caution in patients with cardiovascular or cerebrovascular disease, or in patients who would not tolerate transient decreases in blood pressure.
• Paradoxical reactions: Paradoxical reactions, including hyperactive or aggressive behavior, have been reported with benzodiazepines, particularly in adolescent/pediatric or psychiatric patients (Mancuso 2004).
• Sleep-related activities: Hazardous sleep-related activities such as sleep-driving, cooking and eating food, and making phone calls while asleep have been noted with benzodiazepines (Dolder 2008).
Disease-related concerns:
• Depression: Avoid use in patients with depression because of concerns about worsening mood symptoms, particularly if suicidal risk may be present, except for acute or emergency situations (eg, acute agitation, status epilepticus) (Craske 2022).
• Hepatic impairment: Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment; however, oxazepam has been shown to be less affected by hepatic dysfunction due to its relative slow extraction by the liver and phase II metabolic pathway (glucuronidation) (Furlan 1999; Greenblatt 1981).
• Respiratory disease: Reduce dose or avoid use in patients with respiratory disease, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or sleep apnea. Benzodiazepines may cause significant respiratory depression.
Concurrent drug therapy issues:
• Concomitant use with opioids: [US Boxed warning]: Concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs for use in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required. Follow patients for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation.
Special populations:
• Older adult: Relative to other benzodiazepines, oxazepam possesses a short half-life and lacks an active metabolite which may be preferable in older adults if benzodiazepine use is required for anxiety (Flint 2005). Kinetics were not altered in patients of advanced age compared to younger patients, except in patients >80 years of age where an increased half-life was observed due to an increased volume of distribution and a decrease in unbound clearance. Older adult patients may be at an increased risk of death with use; risk has been found highest within the first 4 months of use in older adult dementia patients (Jennum 2015; Saarelainen 2018).
• Fall risk: Use with extreme caution in patients who are at risk of falls; benzodiazepines have been associated with falls and traumatic injury (Nelson 1999).
Other warnings/precautions:
• Abuse, misuse, and substance use disorder: [US Boxed warning]: The use of benzodiazepines, including oxazepam, exposes users to risks of abuse, misuse, and addiction, which can lead to overdose or death. Abuse and misuse of benzodiazepines commonly involve concomitant use of other medications, alcohol, and/or illicit substances, which is associated with an increased frequency of serious adverse outcomes. Assess each patient's risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction prior to and throughout treatment; counsel patients at increased risk on proper use and monitoring for signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse, and substance use disorder. Institute early treatment or refer patients in whom substance use disorder is suspected. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required.
• Appropriate use: Does not have analgesic, antidepressant, or antipsychotic properties; not indicated for use in the treatment of psychosis.
• Dependence and withdrawal reactions: [US Boxed warning]: The continued use of benzodiazepines, including oxazepam, may lead to clinically significant physical dependence. The risks of dependence and withdrawal increase with longer treatment duration and higher daily dose. Abrupt discontinuation or rapid dosage reduction of oxazepam after continued use may precipitate acute withdrawal reactions, which can be life-threatening. To reduce the risk of withdrawal reactions, use a gradual taper to discontinue oxazepam or reduce the dosage. Some patients may develop a protracted withdrawal syndrome lasting >12 months; may be difficult to differentiate withdrawal symptoms from reemergence or continuation of symptoms for which benzodiazepines were prescribed. Flumazenil may cause withdrawal in patients receiving long-term benzodiazepine therapy.
• Tolerance: Oxazepam is a short half-life benzodiazepine. Duration of action after a single dose is determined by redistribution rather than metabolism. Tolerance does not develop to the anxiolytic effects (Vinkers 2012). Chronic use of this agent may increase the perioperative benzodiazepine dose needed to achieve desired effect.
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Capsule, Oral:
Generic: 10 mg, 15 mg, 30 mg
Yes
Capsules (Oxazepam Oral)
10 mg (per each): $1.15
15 mg (per each): $1.45
30 mg (per each): $2.10
Disclaimer: A representative AWP (Average Wholesale Price) price or price range is provided as reference price only. A range is provided when more than one manufacturer's AWP price is available and uses the low and high price reported by the manufacturers to determine the range. The pricing data should be used for benchmarking purposes only, and as such should not be used alone to set or adjudicate any prices for reimbursement or purchasing functions or considered to be an exact price for a single product and/or manufacturer. Medi-Span expressly disclaims all warranties of any kind or nature, whether express or implied, and assumes no liability with respect to accuracy of price or price range data published in its solutions. In no event shall Medi-Span be liable for special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from use of price or price range data. Pricing data is updated monthly.
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet, Oral:
Generic: 10 mg, 15 mg, 30 mg
C-IV
Oral: Administer without regard to meals.
Alcohol withdrawal syndrome: Management of the symptoms associated with alcohol withdrawal, including tremor and anxiety.
Anxiety disorders: Treatment of anxiety disorders or short-term relief of the symptoms of anxiety, including anxiety associated with depression and anxiety, tension, agitation, and irritability in older patients.
Oxazepam may be confused with oxcarbazepine, oxaprozin, quazepam
Serax may be confused with Eurax, Urex, ZyrTEC
Beers Criteria: Oxazepam is identified in the Beers Criteria as a potentially inappropriate medication to be avoided in patients 65 years and older due to risk of abuse, misuse, physical dependence and addiction. In addition, older adults have increased risk of impaired cognition, delirium, falls, fractures, and motor vehicle accidents with benzodiazepine use. However, benzodiazepines may be appropriate in the elderly when used for seizure disorders, rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder, benzodiazepine or ethanol withdrawal, severe generalized anxiety disorder, or periprocedural anesthesia (Beers Criteria [AGS 2023]).
Murelax [Australia] may be confused with MiraLax brand name for polyethylene glycol 3350 [US]
None known.
Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the drug interactions program by clicking on the “Launch drug interactions program” link above.
Acrivastine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Alcohol (Ethyl): CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Alcohol (Ethyl). Risk C: Monitor
Alizapride: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Amisulpride (Oral): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
ARIPiprazole Lauroxil: May increase CNS depressant effects of Benzodiazepines. ARIPiprazole Lauroxil may increase hypotensive effects of Benzodiazepines. Specifically, the risk of orthostatic hypotension may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
ARIPiprazole: May increase CNS depressant effects of Benzodiazepines. ARIPiprazole may increase hypotensive effects of Benzodiazepines. Specifically, orthostatic hypotension may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Articaine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Consider reducing the dose of articaine if possible when used in patients who are also receiving CNS depressants. Monitor for excessive CNS depressant effects with any combined use. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Azelastine (Nasal): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid
Benperidol: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Beta-Acetyldigoxin: Benzodiazepines may increase serum concentration of Beta-Acetyldigoxin. Risk C: Monitor
Blonanserin: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Blonanserin. Management: Use caution if coadministering blonanserin and CNS depressants; dose reduction of the other CNS depressant may be required. Strong CNS depressants should not be coadministered with blonanserin. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Brexanolone: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Brexanolone. Risk C: Monitor
Brimonidine (Topical): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Bromopride: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Bromperidol: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid
Buclizine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Buprenorphine: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Buprenorphine. Management: Consider reduced doses of other CNS depressants, and avoiding such drugs in patients at high risk of buprenorphine overuse/self-injection. Initiate buprenorphine at lower doses in patients already receiving CNS depressants. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
BusPIRone: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Cannabinoid-Containing Products: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Cannabinoid-Containing Products. Risk C: Monitor
Certoparin: May increase serum concentration of Benzodiazepines. Risk C: Monitor
Cetirizine (Systemic): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Consider avoiding this combination if possible. If required, monitor for excessive sedation or CNS depression, limit the dose and duration of combination therapy, and consider CNS depressant dose reductions. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Chloral Hydrate/Chloral Betaine: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Chloral Hydrate/Chloral Betaine. Management: Consider alternatives to the use of chloral hydrate or chloral betaine and additional CNS depressants. If combined, consider a dose reduction of either agent and monitor closely for enhanced CNS depressive effects. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Chlormethiazole: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Monitor closely for evidence of excessive CNS depression. The chlormethiazole labeling states that an appropriately reduced dose should be used if such a combination must be used. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Chlorphenesin Carbamate: May increase adverse/toxic effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
CloZAPine: Benzodiazepines may increase adverse/toxic effects of CloZAPine. Management: Consider decreasing the dose of (or possibly discontinuing) benzodiazepines prior to initiating clozapine. Monitor for respiratory depression, hypotension, and other toxicities if these agents are combined. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
CNS Depressants: May increase adverse/toxic effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Corticosteroids (Orally Inhaled): Benzodiazepines may increase adverse/toxic effects of Corticosteroids (Orally Inhaled). Specifically, the risk of pneumonia may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Dantrolene: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Daridorexant: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Dose reduction of daridorexant and/or any other CNS depressant may be necessary. Use of daridorexant with alcohol is not recommended, and the use of daridorexant with any other drug to treat insomnia is not recommended. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
DexmedeTOMIDine: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of DexmedeTOMIDine. Management: Monitor for increased CNS depression during coadministration of dexmedetomidine and CNS depressants, and consider dose reductions of either agent to avoid excessive CNS depression. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Difelikefalin: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Difenoxin: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Dihydralazine: CNS Depressants may increase hypotensive effects of Dihydralazine. Risk C: Monitor
Dimethindene (Topical): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Dothiepin: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Doxylamine: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Doxylamine. Risk C: Monitor
DroPERidol: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Consider dose reductions of droperidol or of other CNS agents (eg, opioids, barbiturates) with concomitant use. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Emedastine (Systemic): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Consider avoiding this combination if possible. If required, monitor for excessive sedation or CNS depression, limit the dose and duration of combination therapy, and consider CNS depressant dose reductions. Risk C: Monitor
Entacapone: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Esketamine (Nasal): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Flunarizine: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Flunarizine. Risk X: Avoid
Flunitrazepam: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Flunitrazepam. Management: Reduce the dose of CNS depressants when combined with flunitrazepam and monitor patients for evidence of CNS depression (eg, sedation, respiratory depression). Use non-CNS depressant alternatives when available. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
HydrOXYzine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Consider a decrease in the CNS depressant dose, as appropriate, when used together with hydroxyzine. Increase monitoring of signs/symptoms of CNS depression in any patient receiving hydroxyzine together with another CNS depressant. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Ilaprazole: May increase serum concentration of Benzodiazepines. Risk C: Monitor
Ixabepilone: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Kava Kava: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Ketotifen (Systemic): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Kratom: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid
Lemborexant: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Dosage adjustments of lemborexant and of concomitant CNS depressants may be necessary when administered together because of potentially additive CNS depressant effects. Close monitoring for CNS depressant effects is necessary. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Levocetirizine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Lisuride: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Lofepramine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Lofexidine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Loxapine: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Loxapine. Management: Consider reducing the dose of CNS depressants administered concomitantly with loxapine due to an increased risk of respiratory depression, sedation, hypotension, and syncope. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Magnesium Sulfate: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Melatonin: May increase sedative effects of Benzodiazepines. Risk C: Monitor
Melitracen [INT]: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Mequitazine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Metergoline: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Methadone: Benzodiazepines may increase CNS depressant effects of Methadone. Management: Clinicians should generally avoid concurrent use of methadone and benzodiazepines when possible; any combined use should be undertaken with extra caution. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Methotrimeprazine: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Methotrimeprazine. Methotrimeprazine may increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Reduce the usual dose of CNS depressants by 50% if starting methotrimeprazine until the dose of methotrimeprazine is stable. Monitor patient closely for evidence of CNS depression. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Methoxyflurane: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Metoclopramide: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
MetyroSINE: CNS Depressants may increase sedative effects of MetyroSINE. Risk C: Monitor
Minocycline (Systemic): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Moxonidine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Nabilone: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid
Nalfurafine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Noscapine: CNS Depressants may increase adverse/toxic effects of Noscapine. Risk X: Avoid
OLANZapine: Benzodiazepines may increase adverse/toxic effects of OLANZapine. Management: Monitor closely for hypotension, respiratory or central nervous system depression, and bradycardia if olanzapine is combined with benzodiazepines. Use of parenteral benzodiazepines with IM olanzapine is not recommended. Risk C: Monitor
Olopatadine (Nasal): May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid
Opicapone: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Opioid Agonists: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Opioid Agonists. Management: Avoid concomitant use of opioid agonists and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants when possible. These agents should only be combined if alternative treatment options are inadequate. If combined, limit the dosages and duration of each drug. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Opipramol: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Orphenadrine: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Orphenadrine. Risk X: Avoid
Oxomemazine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk X: Avoid
Oxybate Salt Products: Benzodiazepines may increase CNS depressant effects of Oxybate Salt Products. Risk X: Avoid
OxyCODONE: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of OxyCODONE. Management: Avoid concomitant use of oxycodone and benzodiazepines or other CNS depressants when possible. These agents should only be combined if alternative treatment options are inadequate. If combined, limit the dosages and duration of each drug. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Paliperidone: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Paraldehyde: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Paraldehyde. Risk X: Avoid
Perampanel: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Periciazine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Pipamperone: May increase adverse/toxic effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Piribedil: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Piribedil. Risk C: Monitor
Pizotifen: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Pramipexole: CNS Depressants may increase sedative effects of Pramipexole. Risk C: Monitor
Procarbazine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Rilmenidine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Ropeginterferon Alfa-2b: CNS Depressants may increase adverse/toxic effects of Ropeginterferon Alfa-2b. Specifically, the risk of neuropsychiatric adverse effects may be increased. Management: Avoid coadministration of ropeginterferon alfa-2b and other CNS depressants. If this combination cannot be avoided, monitor patients for neuropsychiatric adverse effects (eg, depression, suicidal ideation, aggression, mania). Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
ROPINIRole: CNS Depressants may increase sedative effects of ROPINIRole. Risk C: Monitor
Rotigotine: CNS Depressants may increase sedative effects of Rotigotine. Risk C: Monitor
Suvorexant: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Suvorexant. Management: Dose reduction of suvorexant and/or any other CNS depressant may be necessary. Use of suvorexant with alcohol is not recommended, and the use of suvorexant with any other drug to treat insomnia is not recommended. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Teduglutide: May increase serum concentration of Benzodiazepines. Risk C: Monitor
Thalidomide: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Thalidomide. Risk X: Avoid
Theophylline Derivatives: May decrease therapeutic effects of Benzodiazepines. Risk C: Monitor
Trimeprazine: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Valerian: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Risk C: Monitor
Yohimbine: May decrease therapeutic effects of Antianxiety Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Zolpidem: CNS Depressants may increase CNS depressant effects of Zolpidem. Management: Reduce the Intermezzo brand sublingual zolpidem adult dose to 1.75 mg for men who are also receiving other CNS depressants. No such dose change is recommended for women. Avoid use with other CNS depressants at bedtime; avoid use with alcohol. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Zuranolone: May increase CNS depressant effects of CNS Depressants. Management: Consider alternatives to the use of zuranolone with other CNS depressants or alcohol. If combined, consider a zuranolone dose reduction and monitor patients closely for increased CNS depressant effects. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Evaluate pregnancy status prior to use. Pregnancy testing is recommended before treating acute alcohol withdrawal symptoms; however, treatment should not be delayed in symptomatic patients if pregnancy status is unknown (ASAM 2020).
Oxazepam is not a first-line medication to treat anxiety disorders prior to conception in patients who are treatment naïve or who do not have a history of effective treatment with a specific medication. Patients effectively treated may continue their current medication when planning a pregnancy unless contraindications exist. Management of mental health conditions in patients who could become pregnant should be based on a shared decision-making process that considers the possibility of pregnancy during treatment (ACOG 2023; BAP [McAllister-Williams 2017]).
Oxazepam crosses the placenta and can be measured in newborn serum at delivery (Jørgensen 1988; Kangas 1980; Tomson 1978; Tomson 1979).
In utero exposure to benzodiazepines has the potential to cause harm to the fetus. Teratogenic effects have been observed in some studies; however, a clear association has not been reported and additional data are needed (Bellantuono 2013; Chuang 2024; Freeman 2018; Grigoriadis 2019; Tinker 2019; Wu 2024). Exposure to a benzodiazepine late in pregnancy may cause neonatal sedation (hypotonia, lethargy, respiratory depression) and/or symptoms of neonatal withdrawal (feeding difficulties, hyperreflexia, inconsolable crying, irritability, restlessness, tremors). Monitor newborns exposed to oxazepam in utero for adverse events. Data related to long-term effects on neurodevelopment following maternal use of benzodiazepines are inconclusive (Andrade 2024; Radojčić 2017; Sundbakk 2024; Wang 2022).
Benzodiazepines are one of the preferred options for treating pregnant patients with alcohol withdrawal. Inpatient treatment is recommended during pregnancy. Agents with a shorter onset and duration of action should be used if near delivery. Monitor newborns for fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, sedative withdrawal, and intoxication (ASAM 2020).
Untreated and undertreated mental health conditions are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Anxiety disorders during pregnancy are associated with low birth weight, preterm birth, and adverse behavioral outcomes in the offspring. Discontinuing effective medications during pregnancy increases the risk of relapse. Management should be made as part of a shared decision-making process. Agents other than oxazepam may be preferred when treatment for anxiety is initiated for the first time during pregnancy. The use of benzodiazepines for the treatment of perinatal anxiety should be avoided or used sparingly until preferred therapy is initiated and effective, or when preferred therapy is not effective; oxazepam may be a preferred benzodiazepine in patients with preeclampsia. When medications are used, the lowest effective dose of a single agent is recommended. Optimize dosing prior to changing a medication or adding additional agents whenever possible. Monthly monitoring for symptom improvement with a validated screening tool during pregnancy is recommended. Manage side effects as needed (ACOG 2023).
Data collection to monitor pregnancy and infant outcomes following exposure to oxazepam is ongoing. Health care providers are encouraged to enroll patients exposed to oxazepam during pregnancy in the National Pregnancy Registry for Psychiatric Medications (1-866-961-2388).
Oxazepam is present in breast milk.
Data related to the presence of oxazepam in breast milk are available from case reports:
• Oxazepam 10 mg was administered 3 times a day for 3 days to a lactating patient 7 months postpartum. Breast milk was sampled prior to the morning and evening doses. Oxazepam concentrations in breast milk were between 24 and 30 mcg/L over the study period and averaged 10% to 33% of the maternal plasma concentrations (Wretlind 1987).
• Oxazepam was present in the breast milk of a patient undergoing detoxification from long-term ingestion of multiple benzodiazepines. At presentation, she was 12 months postpartum, taking oxazepam 30 mg/day and diazepam 80 mg/day. On day 14 of the withdrawal schedule, oxazepam breast milk concentrations were 30 mcg/L and decreased to not detectable by day 39. The infant was weaned from 6 to 3 to 4 feedings per day and did not show signs of benzodiazepine intoxication (Dusci 1990).
Drowsiness, lethargy, or weight loss in breastfeeding infants have been observed in case reports following maternal use of some benzodiazepines (Iqbal 2002).
According to the manufacturer, the decision to breastfeed during therapy should consider the risk of infant exposure, the benefits of breastfeeding to the infant, and the benefits of treatment to the mother. A benzodiazepine with a short half-life (such oxazepam) can be considered for the treatment of anxiety in patients who are breastfeeding. Avoid benzodiazepines with long half-life or multiple active metabolites (Eleftheriou 2024). Monitor infants exposed to oxazepam via breast milk for feeding problems, respiratory depression, and poor weight gain.
Respiratory and cardiovascular status (as clinically indicated); CBC (periodic); liver function tests (periodic)
Short-acting benzodiazepine (Griffin 2013). Binds to stereospecific benzodiazepine receptors on the postsynaptic GABA neuron at several sites within the central nervous system, including the limbic system, reticular formation. Enhancement of the inhibitory effect of GABA on neuronal excitability results by increased neuronal membrane permeability to chloride ions. This shift in chloride ions results in hyperpolarization (a less excitable state) and stabilization. Benzodiazepine receptors and effects appear to be linked to the GABA-A receptors. Benzodiazepines do not bind to GABA-B receptors (Vinkers 2012).
Absorption: Slowly absorbed from the GI tract (Greenblatt 1981).
Duration of action: Classified as a short-acting benzodiazepine; classification based on benzodiazepines with half-life of 1 to 12 hours (Griffin 2013).
Distribution: Vd: 0.6 to 2 L/kg (Greenblatt 1981).
Protein binding: 96% to 98% (Greenblatt 1981).
Metabolism: Hepatic glucuronide conjugation to produce a single, major inactive metabolite (benzophenone) (Greenblatt 1981).
Half-life elimination: ~8 hours (range: 6 to 11 hours).
Time to peak, serum: ~3 hours.
Excretion: Urine (as inactive glucuronide conjugate).
Altered kidney function: In patients with severe renal insufficiency, the elimination half-life of oxazepam was prolonged to a mean of 48 hours (range: 24 to 91); however, clearance of total drug was relatively normal suggesting that a large increase in volume of distribution accounts for the prolongation in half-life (Greenblatt 1981).
Older adult: A statistically significant increase in elimination half-life in patients >80 years of age has been reported, due to a 30% increase in volume of distribution and a 50% reduction in unbound clearance of oxazepam.
Sex: A small but statistically significant prolongation of half-life elimination (9.7 hours versus 7.8 hours) and reduction of total clearance (0.82 mL/minute/kg versus 1.15 mL/minute/kg) has been reported in females in comparison to males, respectively (Greenblatt 1981).