The clinical pharmacology of oxazepam

The benzodiazepines have been available now for about 15 years but new aspects of their actions are being elucidated all the time. Oxazepam has a short half-life and inactive metabolites and therefore differs from most other benzodiazepines. Some aspects of its clinical pharmacology are reviewed in outline. Firstly, the effects of the drug on psychological functioning is discussed. Next, the controversy regarding benzodiazepines and aggression is examined. Oxazepam appears exceptional here in that it is not associated with paradoxical release of aggression in patients. Finally, the ethical implications of the widespread use of these drugs is commented on, and the problem of dependence, physical and psychological, discussed. It appears that oxazepam is less likely than other benzodiazepines to induce dependence.