- Tips to Fast Stress Relief
- Take the Panic Attacks Quiz!
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) Slideshow
- What is oxazepam, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
- What are the uses for oxazepam?
- What are the side effects of oxazepam?
- What is the dosage for oxazepam?
- Which drugs or supplements interact with oxazepam?
- Is oxazepam safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
- What else should I know about oxazepam?
What is oxazepam, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
- Oxazepam (Serax, Zaxopam) is a member of a class of anti-anxiety medications called benzodiazepines. Other members of the benzodiazepine class include alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clobazam (Onfi), diazepam (Valium), estazolam (Prosom), flurazepam (Dalmane), midazolam (Versed), lorazepam (Ativan), temazepam (Restoril), and triazolam (Halcion). It helps relieve anxiety by enhancing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter (a chemical that nerve cells use to communicate with each other) that inhibits activity in the brain. It is thought that excessive activity of nerves in the brain may be the cause of anxiety and other psychological disorders. Benzodiazepines such as oxazepam help to relieve anxiety by increasing the effects of GABA in the brain and spinal cord.
- Oxazepam was approved by the FDA in June, 1965.
Is oxazepam available as a generic drug?
Yes
Do I need a prescription for oxazepam?
Yes
What are the uses for oxazepam?
Oxazepam is used to treat anxiety and symptoms of alcohol withdrawal.
What are the side effects of oxazepam?
The most common side effects associated with oxazepam treatment are
Other side effects include
- a feeling of depression,
- loss of orientation,
- headache,
- sleep disturbance,
- confusion,
- irritability,
- aggression,
- decreased libido,
- excitement, and
- memory impairment.

SLIDESHOW
A Visual Guide to Generalized Anxiety Disorder See SlideshowWhat is the dosage for oxazepam?
The recommended dose of oxazepam is 10-30 mg by mouth 3-4 times daily as needed.
Which drugs or supplements interact with oxazepam?
Excessive sedation can occur when oxazepam is combined with certain other medications or substances that slow the brain's processes. Medications that should be avoided include sleeping aids, certain pain medications (narcotics), barbiturates, and alcohol.
Is oxazepam safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?
- Use during pregnancy may cause harm to the fetus and should be avoided.
- Oxazepam may be secreted in human milk. It should not be used during breastfeeding.
What else should I know about oxazepam?
What preparations of oxazepam are available?
- Oral capsules: 10 mg, 15 mg, and 30 mg.
- Tablet: 15 mg
How should I keep oxazepam stored?
Oxazepam capsules and tablets should be stored at room temperature, between 15 C to 30 C (59 F and 86 F).
Summary
Oxazepam (Serax, Zaxopam) is a prescription drug used to treat symptoms of alcohol withdrawal, and anxiety. Some side effects of Serax may include headache, confusion, dizziness, and decreased libido. Drug interactions, warnings and precautions, dosage, and pregnancy/breastfeeding safety information are provided.
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Treatment & Diagnosis
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QUESTION
Panic attacks are repeated attacks of fear that can last for several minutes. See AnswerHealth Solutions From Our Sponsors

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
REFERENCE:
FDA Prescribing Information.