Side Effects of oxazepam: A Synthesis of Findings from 29 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Main Research Findings

Oxazepam is a benzodiazepine medication used to treat anxiety and insomnia. However, oxazepam can cause various side effects, including dependence, tolerance, and cognitive impairment.

For example, 14 reported that oxazepam given before surgery was less effective than gabapentin at reducing anxiety and pain, especially in the first two hours following surgery. 25 showed that oxazepam was effective at treating insomnia in elderly patients, but it was not as well-tolerated as midazolam. 8 also showed that long-term use of oxazepam can lead to increased irritability.

Another study ( 17 ) found that patients who were undergoing detoxification from opioid and other substance abuse experienced less pronounced withdrawal symptoms when treated with a combination of buprenorphine and carbamazepine, compared to a combination of oxazepam and carbamazepine. However, the same study ( 17 ) found that the buprenorphine/carbamazepine regimen was more effective at reducing feelings of depression and anxiety than the oxazepam/carbamazepine regimen.

A 18 study found that buprenorphine/carbamazepine was more effective than oxazepam/carbamazepine in rapid opioid detoxification for patients who were misusing other drugs. Importantly, neither regimen resulted in severe side effects.

Further research on oxazepam’s influence on the central nervous system is necessary, especially given its prevalence in use. 12 explored how oxazepam in combination with metyrapone reduced cocaine self-administration in rats. 19 studied how oxazepam impacted rat pups’ ultrasonic vocalization in different temperature settings.

Reasons for Side Effects

Oxazepam’s side effects are linked to its pharmacological effects on the brain. It interacts with GABA receptors and suppresses neural activity. While this mechanism is effective at treating anxiety and insomnia, it can also negatively affect cognitive and motor functions.

Common Side Effects

Drowsiness

Oxazepam can cause drowsiness, which can interfere with activities such as driving or operating machinery. 20 reported that oxazepam reduced vigilance performance in healthy volunteers.

Dizziness

Oxazepam can cause dizziness and lightheadedness, which may be due to its muscle relaxant properties. 1 found that oxazepam had muscle relaxant properties in psychogeriatric patients.

Memory Impairment

Oxazepam can impair memory, which can affect cognitive function. 27 showed that oxazepam caused anterograde impairments of long-term verbal memory in healthy volunteers.

Dependence

Long-term use of oxazepam can lead to dependence. 22 showed that oxazepam is an effective treatment for alcohol withdrawal but can be less effective than carbamazepine. 8 reported a case of a patient who developed increased irritability after taking oxazepam for a prolonged period.

Measures for Side Effects

Measures for Drowsiness

Avoid driving or operating machinery while taking oxazepam. Additionally, ensure sufficient sleep to prevent sleep deprivation.

Measures for Dizziness

Exercise caution to avoid falling while taking oxazepam. Stand up slowly to minimize dizziness.

Measures for Memory Impairment

Keep a record of important information while taking oxazepam. Seek assistance from others if needed.

Measures for Dependence

Adhere to your doctor’s instructions when taking oxazepam. Do not stop or reduce the dosage without consulting your doctor, as this could trigger withdrawal symptoms.

Comparison Between Studies

Similarities Between Studies

Multiple studies have shown that oxazepam can cause drowsiness, dizziness, memory impairment, and dependence.

Differences Between Studies

The severity and frequency of oxazepam’s side effects vary across studies. This variation may be due to differences in research methods, participant characteristics, and other factors.

Notes on Applying Research to Real Life

Oxazepam is an effective medication, but it comes with the risk of side effects. Consult your doctor about the potential risks of oxazepam side effects and follow their instructions carefully.

Limitations of Current Research

Research on oxazepam’s side effects is still insufficient, particularly regarding long-term effects and dependence.

Future Research Directions

Further research is needed on the long-term effects and dependence of oxazepam. Additional research is also necessary to develop measures and preventive strategies for mitigating oxazepam’s side effects.

Conclusion

Oxazepam is an effective medication for anxiety and insomnia, but it comes with the risk of side effects. Consult your doctor about the risks and follow their instructions carefully. Additional research is needed to better understand oxazepam’s long-term effects and dependence.

Literature analysis of 29 papers
Positive Content
17
Neutral Content
1
Negative Content
11
Article Type
6
1
1
2
29
1.

Efficacy and side effects of lorazepam, oxazepam, and temazepam as sleeping aids in psychogeriatric inpatients.

Author: LinnoilaM, ViukariM, LamminsivuU, AuvinenJ

Sleep maintenance
Muscle relaxant side effects
Withdrawal insomnia

Lorazepam, oxazepam, and temazepam were effective in maintaining sleep in psychogeriatric inpatients. None of the drugs shortened sleep latency. Oxazepam and temazepam induced withdrawal insomnia, while lorazepam caused delayed and prolonged insomnia in some patients. Lorazepam and oxazepam had muscle relaxant side effects.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

2.

Determination of prescribed and designer benzodiazepines and metabolites in influent wastewater.

Author: BadeRichard, GhetiaMaulik, WhiteJason M, GerberCobus

Benzodiazepine abuse
Death
Severe side effects

This study developed a validated liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry method to detect 20 prescribed and designer benzodiazepines and metabolites in wastewater.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
Validation StudyResearch to assess the validity and reliability of new measurement methods or diagnostic tests.

Language : English

4.

Feline hepatic biotransformation of diazepam: Differences between cats and dogs.

Author: van BeusekomCyrina D, van den HeuvelJeroen J M W, KoenderinkJan B, RusselFrans G M, SchrickxJohannes A

Hepatic side effects

Diazepam can induce severe hepatic side effects in cats, particularly after repeated dosing. This study investigated the mechanisms underlying this sensitivity in cats, examining the feline-specific biotransformation of diazepam and the potential inhibition of the bile salt export pump (Bsep).

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

5.

Sodium oxybate in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal syndrome: a randomized double-blind comparative study versus oxazepam. The GATE 1 trial.

Author: CaputoFabio, SkalaKatrin, MirijelloAntonio, FerrulliAnna, WalterHenriette, LeschOtto, AddoloratoGiovanni

AWS treatment

Sodium oxybate was compared to oxazepam in the treatment of uncomplicated alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS).

Clinical Trial, Phase IVPost-marketing surveillance. Monitors long-term safety/efficacy after approval.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

6.

Association between potentially inappropriate medications from the Beers criteria and the risk of unplanned hospitalization in elderly patients.

Author: PriceSylvie D, HolmanC D'Arcy J, SanfilippoFrank M, EmeryJon D

Adverse drug events

Beers Criteria is a list of potentially inappropriate medications (PIMs) to be avoided in the elderly. While the prevalence of Beers medications has been studied, it is unclear if PIM use predicts adverse events in older people.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

7.

Muscle relaxants for pain management in rheumatoid arthritis.

Author: RichardsBethan L, WhittleSamuel L, BuchbinderRachelle

Pain management

Muscle relaxants are widely used as adjuncts in managing chronic musculoskeletal pain, but evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

8.

Reinforcement of irritability during therapy with benzodiazepines.

Author: UzunSuzana, KozumplikOliver

Benzodiazepine dependence
Benzodiazepine tolerance

Benzodiazepines are a class of medications that are used to treat anxiety. They can cause dependence with long-term use, and tolerance to their effects can develop. Withdrawal from benzodiazepines can be beneficial, especially in elderly patients, as it can improve psychomotor and cognitive function. This paper describes a case of a patient who took high doses of oxazepam for a long period of time and developed irritability.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

11.

Epidemiologic evaluation of pharmaceuticals with limited evidence of carcinogenicity.

Author: FriedmanGary D, JiangSheng-Fang, UdaltsovaNatalia, QuesenberryCharles P, ChanJames, HabelLaurel A

Carcinogenicity

This study evaluated 9 pharmaceuticals classified as probably or possibly carcinogenic to humans for evidence of carcinogenicity in patients receiving them. Some supportive evidence was found for carcinogenicity of griseofulvin, metronidazole, and phenytoin.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.

Language : English

12.

Effects of the combination of metyrapone and oxazepam on cocaine and food self-administration in rats.

Author: GoedersNicholas E, GuerinGlenn F

Cocaine dependence treatment
Abuse potential
Side effects

This study investigates the effects of metyrapone (a corticosterone synthesis inhibitor) and oxazepam (a benzodiazepine receptor agonist) on cocaine self-administration in rats. Combined administration of these drugs significantly reduced cocaine seeking without affecting food-maintained responding.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.

Language : English

14.

Gabapentin for the prevention of postoperative pain after vaginal hysterectomy.

Author: RorariusMichael G F, MennanderSusanna, SuominenPentti, RintalaSirpa, PuuraArto, PirhonenRaili, SalmelinRaili, HaanpääMaija, KujansuuErkki, Yli-HankalaArvi

Reduced nausea
Reduced postoperative pain
Reduced vomiting
Preoperative anxiety

Gabapentin, a drug commonly used to manage pain, was found to reduce the need for postoperative pain medication in patients undergoing vaginal hysterectomy. This effect was seen during the first 20 hours after surgery. Gabapentin also reduced postoperative nausea and vomiting, potentially due to decreased opioid use or an independent antiemetic effect.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

16.

Divalproex sodium in alcohol withdrawal: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Author: ReouxJ P, SaxonA J, MalteC A, BaerJ S, SloanK L

Alcohol withdrawal treatment

Divalproex sodium is a drug that enhances GABA activity and has been proposed as an alternative to benzodiazepines for alcohol withdrawal. This study reports on a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of divalproex sodium in acute alcohol withdrawal.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

17.

[Detoxification of poly-substance abusers with buprenorphine. Effects on affect, anxiety, and withdrawal symptoms].

Author: PaetzoldW, EronatV, SeifertJ, HolzeI, EmrichH M, SchneiderU

Opioid detoxification

This open-labeled study compared the short-term effects of buprenorphine plus carbamazepine to oxazepam plus carbamazepine during rapid detoxification from opioids. Buprenorphine/carbamazepine provided more effective relief from withdrawal syndromes and affect disturbances.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Controlled Clinical TrialA clinical trial that evaluates the effectiveness of a treatment by comparing a group that receives the intervention with a group that receives a placebo or standard treatment.
English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : German

19.

Rat pup ultrasonic vocalization: effects of benzodiazepine receptor ligands.

Author: OlivierB, MolewijkE, van OorschotR, van der HeydenJ, RonkenE, MosJ

The involvement of the GABA(A)-benzodiazepine receptor complex in rat pup ultrasonic vocalisations was studied by testing benzodiazepine receptor ligands with varying intrinsic activity and selectivity for benzodiazepine subtype receptors.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

20.

Vigilance impairment after a single dose of benzodiazepines.

Author: KozenáL, FrantikE, HorváthM

Impaired vigilance
Sleepiness

Diazepam, alprazolam, and nitrazepam impaired vigilance performance in healthy volunteers, causing perceived sleepiness and increased effort.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Controlled Clinical TrialA clinical trial that evaluates the effectiveness of a treatment by comparing a group that receives the intervention with a group that receives a placebo or standard treatment.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

21.

Gender differences in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of psychotropic medication.

Author: YonkersK A, KandoJ C, ColeJ O, BlumenthalS

Response
Toxicity

Young women may respond better to and require lower doses of antipsychotic agents and benzodiazepines than young men. Exogenous hormones may interact with medications, changing plasma levels and possibly increasing the risk of toxicity. Young women may also have a stronger response to non-tricyclic antidepressants.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Research funding provided by the Public Health Service (PHS).
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

22.

Carbamazepine versus oxazepam in the treatment of alcohol withdrawal: a double-blind study.

Author: StuppaeckC H, PychaR, MillerC, WhitworthA B, OberbauerH, FleischhackerW W

Effective for alcohol withdrawal
Superior to oxazepam
Risk of dependency
Side effects

Carbamazepine was compared to oxazepam for the treatment of alcohol withdrawal syndrome in 60 patients. Both drugs showed equal efficacy during the first 5 days, but carbamazepine was significantly superior on days 6 and 7. Carbamazepine is a promising alternative treatment for alcohol withdrawal, particularly in non-delirious states.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Controlled Clinical TrialA clinical trial that evaluates the effectiveness of a treatment by comparing a group that receives the intervention with a group that receives a placebo or standard treatment.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.

Language : English

23.

[Detoxification of poly-substance abusers with buprenorphine. Effects on affect, anxiety, and withdrawal symptoms].

Author: PaetzoldW, EronatV, SeifertJ, HolzeI, EmrichH M, SchneiderU

Opioid detoxification

This open-labeled study compared the short-term effects of buprenorphine plus carbamazepine to oxazepam plus carbamazepine during rapid detoxification from opioids. Buprenorphine/carbamazepine provided more effective relief from withdrawal syndromes and affect disturbances.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Controlled Clinical TrialA clinical trial that evaluates the effectiveness of a treatment by comparing a group that receives the intervention with a group that receives a placebo or standard treatment.
English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : German

25.

Comparison of midazolam and oxazepam as hypnotics in elderly hospitalized patients. A double-blind clinical trial.

Author: LoewF, PawlakC, BenaroyoL, JunodJ P

Improves sleep latency
Safe sleep inducer
Mild side effects

Midazolam was as effective as oxazepam in treating insomnia in 61 elderly hospitalized patients. Midazolam was associated with a shorter sleep latency and was rated more favorably by medical staff. Both drugs were well tolerated and no rebound or carry-over effects were observed.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Controlled Clinical TrialA clinical trial that evaluates the effectiveness of a treatment by comparing a group that receives the intervention with a group that receives a placebo or standard treatment.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

26.

Oxazepam as a probe of hepatic metabolism in patients with Alzheimer's disease.

Author: FismanM, InabaT, KalowW, FoxH, MerskeyH, WongC

Changes in hepatic metabolism

Hepatic metabolism of oxazepam was altered in Alzheimer's disease (AD), with a subgroup of patients showing increased levels of the hydroxylated metabolite and decreased levels of the conjugated metabolite.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

27.

Differential amnesic properties of benzodiazepines: a dose-response comparison of two drugs with similar elimination half-lives.

Author: CurranH V, SchiwyW, LaderM

Anxiety treatment
Sedation
Anterograde amnesia

Oxazepam and lorazepam, benzodiazepines with similar half-lives, were compared for their effects on memory and psychomotor functions. Both drugs produced anterograde amnesia, but the high dose of lorazepam produced greater impairments than oxazepam.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Controlled Clinical TrialA clinical trial that evaluates the effectiveness of a treatment by comparing a group that receives the intervention with a group that receives a placebo or standard treatment.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

28.

Self-administration of clonidine, oxazepam, and hydromorphone by patients undergoing methadone detoxification.

Author: PrestonK L, BigelowG E, LiebsonI A

Opioid withdrawal relief
Side effects

Hydromorphone, clonidine, and oxazepam were tested for their ability to alleviate opioid withdrawal symptoms. Hydromorphone significantly decreased withdrawal symptoms and was preferred for self-administration. Clonidine and oxazepam did not significantly decrease withdrawal symptoms, but clonidine did induce side effects.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.Research funding provided by the Public Health Service (PHS).

Language : English

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