Side Effects of Serax

Serax is a benzodiazepine prescribed for the treatment of anxiety disorders and short-term anxiety. It is also indicated for symptom relief in alcohol withdrawal, including tremors, anxiety and inebriation. For elderly patients, Serax may be prescribed for agitation, anxiety, irritability and tension. Known generically as oxazepam, Serax is available in capsule and tablet form. It is a controlled substance which must be taken only as prescribed. The drug should not be abruptly discontinued after long-term use.

Neurological

Common neurological side effects of Serax include initial mild drowsiness, absence of emotion or enthusiasm, disorientation, tiredness, fatigue, lightheadedness, sedation and depression. Less common side effects include tingling skin, crying, euphoria, nervousness, confusion, stupor, dizziness, restlessness, fainting, slurred speech, headache, difficulty speaking, delirium, slowed responses, poor attention span, vivid dreams, difficulty hearing, double vision, difficulty controlling eye movements and other visual disturbances. Excitement may occur during the first two weeks of treatment. Extrapyramidal system side effects can occur at any time during treatment, including movement and speech dysfunctions.

Cardiac and Blood-related

Cardiac and blood-related side effects are uncommon, and include cardiovascular collapse, slow heart rate, fast heart rate, heart pounding, low blood pressure, high blood pressure, swelling of the extremities, increased blood enzymes, liver enzyme abnormalities, and agranulocytosis and leukopenia (low levels of certain white blood cells).

Gastrointestinal

Common Serax gastrointestinal side effects include dry mouth, constipation and diarrhea. Less common side effects include excess salivation, nausea, difficulty swallowing, stomach dysfunction, loss of appetite and vomiting.

Renal and Reproductive

Common renal side effects include incontinence and difficulty urinating. Reproductive side effects are uncommon, and include menstrual dysfunction and changes in sexual interest.

Skin-related

Skin-related side effects are uncommon, and include rash, hives, itching and inflammation.

Other Side Effects

Other common side effects of Serax include fever, sweating, yellowed skin, stuffy nose and hiccups. Less common side effects include muscular rigidity, decrease of voluntary muscle movement, involuntary muscle contractions and breast enlargement in males.

Drug Dependence

Drug dependence can occur, leading to withdrawal symptoms when the drug is discontinued. This is more common when Serax has been taken for more than four months. Symptoms of benzodiazepine withdrawal include convulsions, vomiting, tremors, anxiety, insomnia, abdominal cramps, muscle cramps and sweating.