Bromazepam, What Is It For And What Is Its Appropriate Dose?

Bromazepam belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines. This group of drugs decrease neuronal arousal and have an antiepileptic, anxiolytic, hypnotic and muscle relaxant effect.

In this way, bromazaepam administered at low doses  relieves mental tension, anxiety and nervousness. However, at higher doses it has a sedative and muscle relaxant effect.

It is indicated in people who have symptoms of anxiety, tension, depression, nervousness, agitation and who have difficulty sleeping. Some patients with anxiety or nervousness may also have problems with their heart rate, breathing, or digestives. Bromazepam can also help relieve these symptoms.

In most cases, only a short-term treatment is needed. In general, it should not exceed 8 to 12 weeks, including in this period of time the time necessary for the gradual withdrawal of treatment.

Development of dependence on bromazepam

In addition to the immediate effects of benzodiazepines, bromazepam can cause dependence in the medium and long term .

The risks derive from its ability to produce enzyme induction in the liver, which translates into tolerance. Therefore, to achieve the same effect, the dose must be progressively increased. But if its administration is interrupted, the withdrawal syndrome appears.

How to take bromazepam?

Bromazepam comes as a capsule to take by mouth. Depending on the nature of your disease, your age and weight, the doctor will give you the appropriate dose.

Precautions before taking bromazepam

• You should not take bromazepam if you are allergic to this drug or to the group of benzodiazepines in general. You should also not take it if you are dependent on alcohol or drugs.

• During treatment with bromazepam you should avoid alcoholic beverages. The effect of alcohol can enhance sedation.
• If you are pregnant or could be, your doctor should know to assess whether you take bromazepam. In addition, it will also value it in case you are breastfeeding.
• For patients over 65 years of age, the doctor will also readjust the dose based on the response.
• On the other hand, the doctor will assess the dose and the appropriateness of treatment with bromazepam if you suffer from liver or kidney disorders, respiratory distress or muscle weakness.

What is the proper dosage?

Start with the lowest dose of bromazepam. Most patients do not need more than three 1.5 mg capsules a day, divided into two or three doses.

Bromazepam capsules should be taken before or with meals. In addition, you must swallow them whole and without chewing with a little water.

In most cases , a short-term treatment is needed that should not exceed 8 to 12 weeks. This time period also includes the time required for gradual withdrawal.

To avoid withdrawal symptoms, you should not stop taking bromazepam abruptly, especially if you have been taking it for a long time.

What adverse effects can bromazepam cause?

This medicine is well tolerated by most patients, but the following side effects may be observed early in treatment:

• Confusion and drowsiness.
• Headache, dizziness, and reduced alertness.
• Ataxia, lack of coordination and double vision.
• Nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness, and fatigue.

These symptoms generally disappear with continued treatment. However, other adverse effects can also be triggered such as:

• Immune system disorders.
• Psychiatric disorders, such as depression.
• Irritability.
• Aggressiveness.
• Outbursts of anger
• Nightmares.
• Hallucinations

Heart disorders such as heart failure and heart attacks can also appear. In addition, patients may suffer falls and fractures, with an increased risk in elderly patients and in patients who are taking other sedatives at the same time.

The use of benzodiazepines, as we have seen, can develop physical dependence, even at therapeutic doses. This occurs mainly when the drug is taken continuously for a long time.

Conclution

Bromazepam is a benzodiazepine. These types of drugs have proven their efficacy and safety in the short term, from 8 to 12 weeks, in severe anxiety disorders and severe insomnia.

Although there is documentation that does not justify their long-term use, at present, they are still prescribed for longer periods.