Description
Active Ingredient | LEXOTAN |
---|---|
US Name | LEXOTAN |
EU Name | BROMAZEPAM |
DESCRIPTION
Bromazepam (marketed under several brand names, including Lectopam, Lexotan, Lexilium, Lexaurin, Brazepam, Rekotnil, Bromaze, Somalium and Lexotanil) is a benzodiazepine derivative drug, patented by Roche in 1963 and developed clinically in the 1970s.It has mainly an anti-anxiety agent with similar side effects to diazepam (Valium). In addition to being used to treat anxiety or panic states, bromazepam may be used as a premedicant prior to minor surgery.Bromazepam is contraindicated and should be used with caution in women who are pregnant, the elderly, patients with a history of alcohol or other substance abuse disorders and children. Prolonged use of bromazepam causes tolerance and may lead to both physical and psychological dependence on the drug. What is bromazepam used for? Bromazepam (also known as Lexotan®) is known as a benzodiazepine. It is mainly used to help treat the symptoms of anxiety. It can also be used to help the symptoms of panic and social anxiety. It is made as tablets. What is the usual dose of bromazepam? The usual dose of bromazepam in adults for anxiety is 3-18mg a day a day, usually split up throughout the day. In older people the dose should be a bit lower e.g. half the adult dose. How and when should I take bromazepam? Swallow the tablets with at least half a glass of water whilst sitting or standing. This is to make sure that it reaches the stomach and does not stick in your throat. There is no problem about taking bromazepam before, with, or after food. How long will it be before bromazepam works? Bromazepam usually starts to work in about an hour. The effect may then build over several days or weeks. How long will I need to keep taking bromazepam for? This will depend on what you are taking it for. Can I stop taking bromazepam suddenly? You could become dependent on bromazepam if you take it regularly every day for more than about 4 to 6 weeks, although this is not such a problem if you are taking it for epilepsy. If you have taken it regularly, it might be best to reduce the dose slowly over a few days or weeks. You should discussthis fully with your prescriber, doctor, nurse or pharmacist. If you are taking it “when required” every few days you should be able stop when you feel you don’t need it any more. What should I do if I forget to take a dose of bromazepam? Take the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it is within about 4 hours of your next dose. If you remember after this just take the next dose as normal. Do not try to catch up by taking two doses at once as you may get more side-effects. Can I drink alcohol while I am taking bromazepam? If you drink alcohol while taking bromazepam it may make you feel more sleepy. This is particularly important if you need to drive or operate machinery and you must seek advice on this. What sort of side-effects might I get if I am taking bromazepam? Many people get: A few people get: A very few people get: Dizziness Sleepiness Feeling unsteady on your feet the next day Headache Confusion Amnesia (forgetting things) Do not be worried by this list of side effects. Some people get no side effects at all and others may get some effects that are not listed here. If you think you might have a side effect to your medicine, you should ask your doctor, nurse or pharmacist. Can I drive or cycle while I am taking bromazepam? Bromazepam may affect your ability to drive, and it can cause a little dizziness and lightheadedness. Until you know how bromazepam affects you, be careful about driving or operating machinery. You should be careful as it may slow down your reaction times.