Tranxene

What is it?

A long-acting benzodiazepine, clorazepate potassium available as capsules in 2 strengths containing clorazepate potassium. Grey/pink, contain 15mg and grey/ maroon, contain 7.5mg, all marked with TRANXELAE, capsule strength and symbol.

Medical Uses

Anxiety whether or not depression is present.

Dosage

Adults and children aged over 16 years, 7.5 to 22.5mg each day, elderly persons, 7.5mg each day. As single or divided doses.

Special Care

Chronic lung insufficiency, chronic liver or kidney disease, depression, glaucoma (acute, narrow angle), bereavement. Drug can affect dexterity and judgement. Long-term use is to be avoided and drug should be withdrawn gradually.

Avoid Use

Children, pregnancy, breast- feeding, labour, acute lung insufficiency, depression of respiration (except in cases of acute muscle spasms), sleep apnoea, severe liver insufficiency, myasthenia gravis (a severe autoimmune disorder). Also, when treating anxiety, obsessional states or chronic psychosis.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Alcohol and otherCNS depressants, anticonvulsants.

Known Side Effects

Vertigo, gastro-intestinal upsets, confusion, ataxia, drowsiness, light-headedness, hypotension, disturbance of vision, skin rashes. Also, urine retention, changes in libido. Dependence a potential problem.