Patient/caregiver was educated on contraindications for using Oxazepam as follows:
- Oxazepam use in expectant mothers could harm the unborn baby and result in pregnancy complications, such as, low birth weight baby, small head circumference, and preterm delivery. So, Oxazepam use should be avoided during pregnancy and in women planning to get pregnant.
- When taken together, Oxazepam can interact with a number of other medications and can precipitate serious reactions. Some medications, such as, oral contraceptives, some antibiotics, anti-GERD agents like omeprazole, inhibit the enzymes needed for the metabolism of Oxazepam. Concurrent administration of these medications with Oxazepam can inhibit the metabolism of oxazepam. Thus, oxazepam stays in the body for prolonged duration of time in comparison to normal and stand the risk of causing toxicity.
- Some medications, such as, phenytoin and carbamazepine, induce the enzymes needed for the metabolism of Oxazepam. Concurrent administration of these medications with Oxazepam can quicken the metabolism of oxazepam and clear the medication out of the body quicker. Thus, oxazepam stays in the body for shorter duration of time in comparison to normal and results in compromised therapeutic benefit. If you are being newly started on Oxazepam, discuss with your physician regarding all other medications you are currently taking and their safety with Oxazepam. Also, if you have been taking Oxazepam for long, discuss with your physician regarding your history of Oxazepam intake, when you are being started on any new medication.
- Oxazepam is extensively metabolized in the liver and the metabolites are excreted in the urine. If liver function is deficient, the metabolism of Oxazepam can be compromised and slowed down. In individuals with history of compromised renal function, the excretion of oxazepam metabolites can be compromised. In either case, oxazepam and metabolites stay in the body for prolonged duration of time in comparison to normal leading to increased blood levels of the medication and metabolites for longer periods of time. This can lead to increased risk for side-effects and consequent toxicity. So, Oxazepam could be cautiously administered or avoided for an alternative medication, in individuals with hepatic and/or renal dysfunction. Periodical labs for liver and/or renal function could be ordered and individuals monitored for development of any toxic symptoms. Discuss with your physician regarding history of compromised liver or kidney function, if any.
