Generic Name:
halazepam (hal-AZ-e-pam)

Brand Names:
Paxipam®

Classification:
Benzodiazepines

Issue Date:
1986

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 is not commercially available in the United States.

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.

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.

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
• liver disease
• asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or another respiratory disease
• 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.

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine.

Symptoms of a halazepam overdose include:

• extreme drowsiness
• dizziness
• confusion
• slow heart beat
• difficulty breathing
• difficulty walking and talking
• appearance of being drunk
• unconsciousness

Side Effects

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction:

• hives
• difficulty breathing
• swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• sores in the mouth or throat
• yellowing of the skin or eyes
• a rash
• hallucinations or severe confusion
• changes in vision

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take halazepam and talk to your doctor if you experience:

• drowsiness, dizziness, or clumsiness
• depression
• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation
• difficulty urinating
• vivid dreams
• headache
• dry mouth
• decreased sex drive
• changes in behavior

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

Halazepam may increase the effects of other drugs that cause drowsiness, including:

• antidepressants
• alcohol
• antihistamines
• sedatives (used to treat insomnia)
• pain relievers
• anxiety medicines
• seizure medicines
• muscle relaxants

Tell your doctor about all medicines that you are taking, and do not take any medicine without first talking to your doctor.

Antacids may decrease the effects of halazepam. Separate doses of an antacid and halazepam by several hours whenever possible.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with halazepam. This includes vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor.