What is the difference between oxazepam and temazepam?

Oxazepam is a sedative medication classified as a benzodiazepine. It is prescribed by doctors for the treatment of anxiety, excessive stress, and severe sleep disorders. Due to its calming effect, oxazepam is also often used to alleviate withdrawal symptoms from alcohol dependence.

Effects and mechanism of oxazepam

Oxazepam is used to reduce insomnia, anxiety, and stress. It achieves this by increasing the levels of GABA in the brain, similar to gidazepam and other benzodiazepines. GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is a naturally occurring neurotransmitter in the brain. It helps prevent certain brain regions from becoming overactive, as overstimulation can lead to feelings of restlessness, anxiety, and stress.

Temazepam is also a benzodiazepine medication. It has a calming effect and is primarily used to treat anxiety and insomnia. Temazepam is especially effective in helping people fall asleep but is also commonly used to suppress psychotic symptoms. It is available only with a doctor’s prescription.

Effects and mechanism of temazepam

Temazepam works by enhancing the production of the neurotransmitter GABA. While GABA is naturally produced in the brain, temazepam increases its levels even further. Higher GABA levels reduce activity in overactive brain regions, helping to relieve anxiety, tension, restlessness, and insomnia. However, temazepam only suppresses symptoms—it does not cure the underlying causes of anxiety, tension, or sleep disorders.

There are many similarities between oxazepam and temazepam, just as there are between oxazepam and lorazepam. However, there is also a notable difference between oxazepam and temazepam. Temazepam is more commonly prescribed as a sleep aid since it takes effect more quickly—usually within an hour. Additionally, doctors typically prescribe temazepam only for severe sleep disorders. Oxazepam, on the other hand, takes longer to take effect but lasts for about six to eight hours. It is more commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders and excessive stress. Oxazepam is also frequently used to help manage withdrawal symptoms during alcohol detoxification.

Both temazepam and oxazepam have a sedative effect. When taken together, they enhance each other’s effects, which is why it is not advisable to use them simultaneously. Combining these medications can lead to increased drowsiness and confusion, affecting reaction time and coordination. A similar effect is seen when mixing benzodiazepines, such as lorazepam, with alcohol. Therefore, combining benzodiazepines with other benzos or alcohol is strongly discouraged.