For people struggling with anxiety, it is not uncommon to be prescribed medication to manage their symptoms. When this occurs, it is crucial to understand any possible side effects or risks involved with taking a specific substance. Just because something is prescribed by a doctor does not erase the possibility of adverse effects, abuse, or even addiction. With that being said, Banyan’s Massachusetts addiction treatment center is going over oxazepam side effects to keep in mind before use.
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What Is Oxazepam?
Oxazepam, brand name Serax, is a benzodiazepine that is primarily used to treat symptoms of anxiety disorders in patients. It is also effective in treating acute alcohol withdrawal in people struggling with alcoholism. As a benzo, this drug operates by heightening the effects of GABA in the brain. GABA is the acronym for gamma-aminobutyric acid, a neurotransmitter that decreases a nerve cell’s ability to send messages to other nerve cells. This, in turn, leaves users feeling sedated and relaxed.
The typical oxazepam dosage will rely on a variety of factors, including the person’s age and the symptoms being managed. Dosing for anxiety is as follows:
- Children 6 years or older – The dose must be determined by a doctor.
- Adults – 10 to 30 milligrams (mg) 3 to 4 times a day.
- Elderly adults – 10 mg, 3 times a day. The dose can be increased by your doctor if needed.
Oxazepam is a Schedule IV controlled substance, which means that it possesses a relatively low risk of dependence or abuse. This, however, does not mean it is not possible. Nearly any substance holds some ability to be misused if doctor’s orders are not adhered to. That is why following the directions on a prescription is so important. Straying from these directions can result in the development of tolerance, which is one of the first steps in a potential addiction.
Side Effects of Oxazepam
In nearly any drug, there are benefits and risks involved with usage. Even if the medicine is doing its job, users may still experience side effects that range in severity.
Common oxazepam side effects include:
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Headache
- Overall lack of energy
It is also possible for more serious side effects to present themselves. If any of these effects are experienced, a doctor should be contacted right away. These can include:
- Abdominal pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Fainting or fatigue
- Seizures
- Tremors of the body
- Yellow discoloration in eyes or skin
Presentation of these symptoms may signal a serious adverse reaction, and if you feel that you are in danger, call 911 immediately.
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Treatment for Benzodiazepine Abuse
While oxazepam is not classified as highly on the controlled substance schedule as some alternative medications, all substances can hold the potential for abuse. Benzodiazepine abuse can be particularly dangerous because of the possible withdrawal symptoms they can result in. If you need to stop taking a drug, do not do so suddenly. Our drug rehab in Massachusetts offers drug detox partnerships that can aid you in overcoming these symptoms in a safe and medically monitored environment.
Patients can access benzo addiction treatment that can effectively get to the bottom of what caused the abuse in the first place. They will also have the ability to learn healthy coping mechanisms to apply moving forward.
To learn more about our programs, call Banyan Massachusetts at 888-280-4763 today.
Source:
- Mayo Clinic - Oxazepam (Oral Route)
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