Tranxene (discontinued in the UK - February 2006)

How does it work?

Tranxene capsules contain the active ingredient clorazepate dipotassium, which is a type of medicine called a benzodiazepine.

Clorazepate acts on receptors in the brain (GABA receptors) causing the release of a chemical called GABA (gamma amino butyric acid). GABA is a major inhibitory chemical in the brain involved in inducing sleepiness and control of anxiety and fits. Clorazepate acts by increasing the activity of GABA, thereby reducing the functioning of certain areas of the brain. This results in sleepiness, a decrease in anxiety and relaxation of muscles. Clorazepate is most commonly used to relieve anxiety that is serious, disabling or causing extreme distress. It is not recommended for long-term treatment due to the development of dependence.

What is it used for?

Anxiety (short term use)

Warning!

The manufacturer of Tranxene capsules will be discontinuing this medicine in February 2006. If you are taking Tranxene capsules it is important that you make an appointment with your doctor before this time so that your treatment can be reviewed and an alternative medicine prescribed if necessary.

This medicine is generally only suitable for short-term use. If it is used for long periods or in high doses, tolerance to and dependence upon the medicine may develop, and withdrawal symptoms may occur if treatment is stopped suddenly. For this reason, treatment with this medicine should usually be stopped gradually, following the instructions given by your doctor, in order to avoid withdrawal symptoms such as rebound insomnia or anxiety, confusion, sweating, tremor, loss of appetite, irritability or convulsions.

This medicine may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery.

Use with caution in

Disease affecting the airways or lungs (respiratory disease)

Elderly people

History of alcoholism or drug abuse

Kidney disease

Life long inherited blood diseases which can cause a variety of symptoms, including mental health problems (porphyrias)

Liver disease

Muscle weakness

Personality disorders

Not to be used in

Children under 16 years of age

Allergy to benzodiazepines

Abnormal muscle weakness

Psychotic illness

Severe liver disease

Severely decreased lung function

Slow, shallow breathing (respiratory depression)

Syndrome involving short spells when breathing stops during sleep

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should be avoided during pregnancy as it may be harmful to the developing baby. This is particularly important during the third trimester of pregnancy and prior to or during labour.

This medicine passes into breast milk. It is recommended that mothers should avoid using this medicine while breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Label warnings

This medication causes drowsiness which may continue the next day. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Avoid alcoholic drink.

This medication may cause drowsiness. If affected do not drive or operate machinery. Avoid alcoholic drink.

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