Use

Bromazepam is an anti-anxiety treatment and a sedative. Bromazepam is in the group of drugs known as benzodiazepines, a class of antidepressants, anti-panic agents, and muscle relaxants.

Bromazepam is usually prescribed for a short term treatment for major anxiety, but is not recommended for use to relieve everyday stress or anxiety. Bromazepam may also be used to relieve temporary insomnia, but if used daily, it will become ineffective in a few weeks.

Side effects

Bromazepam side effects are usually temporary, and fade with continued treatment. Higher dosage also increases the risk of side effects. Operating automobiles or heavy machinery is not recommended while taking Bromazepam. Be aware of how this medication affects you before attempting any potentially dangerous activities.

Common Bromazepam side effects: drowsiness, fatigue, light-headedness, rebound insomnia (on stopping treatment), slurred speech.

Less common Bromazepam side effects: abdominal cramps, anxiety, constipation, dry mouth, hyperventilation, blurred vision, nausea, chest pain, change in sex drive, confusion, depression, headache, change in appetite, insomnia, unusual dreams, change in salivation, low blood pressure, racing heartbeat, fainting, nasal congestion, sweating, weight change, skin irritation, twitching or tremors, nervous or anxious state, sun sensitivity, respiratory infection, memory impairment, menstrual difficulties, and loss of coordination. Speak to your doctor about any of these effects; your dosage may need to be adjusted or treatment discontinued.

Rare Bromazepam side effects: difficulty concentrating, slurred or unusual speech, delusions, double vision, fear, altered sense of taste, lack of inhibition, muscle cramps or spasms, urination problems or incontinence, tingling, seizure, sores in mouth, warmth, weakness, change in muscle tone, uncontrolled movements, or yellow eyes and skin. Speak to your doctor if you experience any of these effects; your treatment may need to be discontinued, or you may require medical attention.

Bromazepam treatment should be discontinued if any of the following occur: hyperexcitement, muscle spasm, anxiety, hallucinations, rage or other hostile behavior, tremors, insomnia, sleeping difficulties or overstimulation.

Precautions

Bromazepam has been known to interact undesirably with certain medical conditions. Tell your doctor if you have, or have a history of, any of the following conditions:

Alcohol or drug abuse - may increase likelihood of Bromazepam dependence

Allergic reaction to Bromazepam, or other benzodiazepine. Always tell your doctor about any allergies before starting a medication.

Borderline personality disorder or a history of violent behavior.

Brain disease - may increase likelihood of side effects from Bromazepam

Breathing difficulties such as asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, or any other chronic lung disease - Bromazepam may worsen this condition.

Difficulty swallowing - This condition may become more pronounced in children.

Epilepsy or seizures - Abruptly starting or stopping treatment with Bromazepam may increase seizures. Although Bromazepam can be used as an aid to anti-tremor therapy, it should be used cautiously and strictly according to a doctor's instructions in these cases.

Glaucoma - you should not get a prescription for Bromazepam if you suffer acute narrow-angle glaucoma. Patients receiving treatment for open angle glaucoma should consult their doctor, as Bromazepam may be an acceptable treatment for them.

Kidney or liver problems - In isolated cases, Bromazepam has been reported to cause jaundice. If you experience yellowing of the skin or eyes, seek medical treatment immediately. More Bromazepam may end up in your bloodstream if you have a pre-existing kidney or liver condition, increasing the likelihood of side effects.

Myasthenia gravis - This autoimmune disorder characterized by muscle weakness may be aggravated by Bromazepam treatment.

Porphyria - Bromazepam (alprazolam) is listed as an unsafe drug for porphyria, an enzyme deficiency that can cause fragile skin that is sensitive to sunlight, digestive difficulties, anxiety, and reddish-brown urine.

Psychosis or other serious mental illness - Bromazepam has not proved to be an effective treatment for these conditions, and is not recommended.

Sleep apnea (temporary suspension of breathing during sleep) - Bromazepam may worsen this condition. Individuals with sleep apnea should not generally use sedatives as sleep aids. (See Sleep Disorders)

Notes

Incorrect use of Bromazepam can cause a dependence. Withdrawal symptoms may occur if treatment is discontinued abruptly. Follow your doctor's advice about how much, and how often, you should take Bromazepam. If you are considering stopping Bromazepam treatment, ask your doctor how to safely decrease and then stop Bromazepam.

Have your blood pressure checked regularly while taking this medication. Learn how to monitor your own blood pressure, and share the readings with your doctor.