Side Effects of Lexotan

Lexotan is the trade name for the prescription medication bromazepam. Lexotan is indicated for the treatment of tension, anxiety and agitation. It is a benzodiazepine medication which increases the neurotransmitter GABA, which in turn functions to inhibit activity in the central nervous system. Lexotan was approved for use in the United States in 2004, and has been studied extensively in clinical trials and post-marketing research. Lexotan has proven generally safe while taken in moderation, but can also yield several side effects ranging from mild to serious.

Common and Mild Side Effects

The prescribing label for Lexotan states that the most common side effect experienced is drowsiness, occurring in around 32 percent of patients. Lexotan is a central nervous system depressant, so along with the relief of anxiety, drowsiness should be expected as a potential side effect. Loss of balance and dizziness are the other most common side effects, occurring in 13 and 7 percent of patients, respectively. Most of the common side effects of Lexotan are dose-dependent, with the mean daily dose of around 24 mg. If taken in higher doses to meet serious anxiety relief, patients should consult their physician before driving or operating machinery.

Serious Negative Effects

The International Programme on Chemical Safety also states that bromazepam can cause serious negative effects to the fetus while pregnant and to infants through breastfeeding 12. Newborns exposed to bromazepam may experience respiratory depression, poor reflexes and low body temperature. Fetuses that experience chronic exposure may be born with jaundice, or the yellowing of the skin and eyes, due to bromazepam causing excess bilirubin in the bloodstream. Bromazepam is also excreted in breast milk, so mothers should refrain from using Lexotan if they choose to breastfeed.

Dependence and Withdrawal

One of the more serious potential side effects of Lexotan is the possibility of dependence and withdrawal. Patients should consult their physician if they are using more than the recommended dose or are having serious rebound anxiety between doses. Patients that become dependent should taper off of their medication in small increments in order to prevent a relapse that can result in taking even larger doses. According to Canoe Health, withdrawal symptoms can include:

• seizures
  
• irritability
  
• nervousness
  
• insomnia
  
• agitation
  
• tremors
  
• diarrhea
  
• abdominal cramps
  
• vomiting
  
• extreme anxiety
  
• confusion