halazepam Health Article

Generic name(s):

halazepam

Brand name(s):

Paxipam

What is the most important information I should know about halazepam?

Halazepam is not commercially available in the United States.

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Halazepam will cause drowsiness and may cause dizziness. If you experience drowsiness or dizziness, avoid these activities. Avoid alcohol while taking halazepam. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness caused by halazepam. Halazepam is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if halazepam is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose.

What is halazepam?

Halazepam is not commercially available in the United States.

Halazepam is in a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. Halazepam affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause anxiety.

Halazepam is used to relieve anxiety, nervousness, and tension associated with anxiety disorders.

Halazepam may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking halazepam?

Do not take halazepam if you have narrow-angle glaucoma. Halazepam may worsen this condition.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you

• have kidney disease;
• have liver disease;

• have asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or another respiratory disease; or

• are depressed or have suicidal thoughts.

You may not be able to take halazepam, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

It is not known whether halazepam will harm an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known whether halazepam passes into breast milk. Do not take halazepam without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby. If you are over 65 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from halazepam. You may require a lower dose of this medication.

How should I take halazepam?

Take halazepam exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a full glass of water.

Do not take more than is prescribed for you.

Halazepam is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on the medication. Do not take more than the prescribed amount of medication or take it for longer than is directed by your doctor. Withdrawal effects may occur if halazepam is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Your doctor may recommend a gradual reduction in dose. Store halazepam at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication. A double dose could be very dangerous.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.

Symptoms of a halazepam overdose include sleepiness, dizziness, confusion, a slow heart beat, difficulty breathing, difficulty walking and talking, an appearance of being drunk, and unconsciousness.