Oxazepam

What is oxazepam?

Oxazepam (brand names: Serax®, Novoxapam®, Oxpam®) is a benzodiazepine used to stimulate appetite and to treat behavior-related disorders, such as anxiety and phobias, in conjunction with other therapies.

Its use in cats and dogs to treat behavior-related disorders and to stimulate appetite is off label (extra label). Many drugs are commonly prescribed for off-label use in veterinary medicine. 

“Off label” means the drug is being used in a way that has not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or Health Canada. In these instances, follow your veterinarian’s directions and cautions carefully, as they may be significantly different from those on the label.

How is oxazepam given?

• Oxazepam is given by mouth in the form of a capsule or tablet. It may also be given as a compounded liquid suspension.
• Measure liquid forms carefully.
• Oxazepam may be given with or without food; however, if vomiting occurs when dosed on an empty stomach, give future doses with food.
• If used for behavior triggers, give oxazepam an hour before the triggering event.
• Monitor your pet closely the first time this medication is given.
• If giving long-term, do not stop this medication abruptly, as withdrawal can occur.

This medication will take effect quickly, in about 1 to 2 hours, and improvement in clinical signs should follow.

What if I miss giving my pet the medication?

If you miss a dose, give it as soon as you remember, and then wait the recommended time for the next dose, as prescribed by your veterinarian. Do not give the pet two doses at once.

Are there any potential side effects?

Oxazepam may cause the following side effects:

• Sleepiness (most common)
• Drooling
• Increased appetite
• incoordination
• Excitability
• Vocalization
• Aggression

Serious adverse reactions may occur. If any of the following signs develop, stop giving oxazepam and contact your veterinarian immediately:

• Seizures
• Yellowing of the skin, gums, or eyes
• Lack of appetite
• Continued vomiting

Drug sensitivities can develop over time, with repeated exposure. Your pet may have no reaction after the first few doses but may develop a sensitivity later. It is important to watch for signs of an allergic reaction over the entire course of treatment.

Other side effects may occur. If you notice anything unusual, contact your veterinarian immediately.  This short-acting medication should stop working within 24 hours, although effects can be longer in pets with liver or kidney disease.

Are there any risk factors for this medication?

DO NOT USE oxazepam in:

• Pets that are allergic to it or other benzodiazepines
• Pets that are nursing
• Pets that have glaucoma

USE WITH CAUTION in:

• Pets with myasthenia gravis
• Pets with seizures
• Pets with kidney disease or liver disease
• Pets that are pregnant, older, sick, or debilitated
• Cats

Are there any drug interactions I should be aware of?

Several medications should be used with caution when given with oxazepam, including:

• Central nervous system (CNS) depressant drugs
• Theophylline

Be sure to tell your veterinarian about any medications (including vitamins, supplements, or herbal therapies) that your pet is taking before starting any new treatment.

Is any monitoring needed with this medication?

• Your veterinarian will let you know when and how they want to reassess your pet to ensure the medication is working and not causing side effects.
• At home, monitor for any side effects such as those noted above. If any occur, stop using the medication and contact your veterinarian.

How do I store oxazepam?

• Store this medication at room temperature, protected from direct sunlight.
• Keep the container out of reach of children and pets. 

What should I do in case of emergency?

If you suspect an overdose or an adverse reaction to the medication, call your veterinary office immediately. If they are not available, follow their directions in contacting an emergency facility. Be prepared to provide information about the product and your pet's weight and symptoms.