Serax (Oxazepam) drug: Serax side effects

Generic Name: Oxazepam

Uses of Serax:

Serax (Oxazepam) is an antianxiety agent (benzodiazepines) - used primarily for treatment mild to moderate anxiety. It may also be used to treat symptoms of alcohol withdrawals or alcohol addiction.

Serax also is used to treat irritable bowel syndrome. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using this drug for your condition.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

How to Take Serax:

Serax comes as a tablet and capsule to take by mouth. It usually is taken three or four times a day and may be taken with or without food. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take oxazepam exactly as directed.

Serax can be habit-forming. Do not take a larger dose, take it more often, or for a longer time than your doctor tells you to. Tolerance may develop with long-term or excessive use, making the drug less effective. This medication must be taken regularly to be effective. Do not skip doses even if you feel that you do not need them. Do not take oxazepam for more than 4 months or stop taking this medication without talking to your doctor. Stopping the drug suddenly can worsen your condition and cause withdrawal symptoms (anxiousness, sleeplessness, and irritability). Your doctor probably will decrease your dose gradually.

Serax Side Effects:

Some common side effects reported with this medicine include:

Drowsiness or dizziness
Dry mouth
Constipation
Nausea
tiredness
weakness
Blurred vision
Headache
Weight gain

Warnings and precautions for Serax:

tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to oxazepam, alprazolam (Xanax); chlordiazepoxide (Librium, Librax), clonazepam (Klonopin), clorazepate (Tranxene), diazepam (Valium), estazolam (ProSom), flurazepam (Dalmane), lorazepam (Ativan), prazepam (Centrax), temazepam (Restoril), triazolam (Halcion), tartrazine (a yellow dye in some oxazepam tablets), aspirin, or any other drugs.
Talk with your physician or pharmacist if you are taking other medications.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially antihistamines; digoxin (Lanoxin); levodopa (Larodopa, Sinemet); medication for depression, seizures, Parkinson's disease, pain, asthma, colds, or allergies; muscle relaxants; oral contraceptives; phenytoin (Dilantin); probenecid (Benemid); rifampin (Rifadine); sedatives; sleeping pills; theophylline (Theo-Dur); tranquilizers; and vitamins. These medications may add to the drowsiness caused by oxazepam.
Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while taking Serax, call your doctor immediately.
This medicine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Alcoholic beverages can increase the side effects of this medicine and should be avoided.
Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how this drug affects you.

What to do if you take Overdose of Serax medicine?

Seek medical attention immediately. For non emergencies, contact your local or regional poison control center.

What to do if you take Missed Dose of Serax?

Take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How to Store Serax:

Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.