Why is Bromazepam Not Prescribed in the United States?

Bromazepam is an intermediate-acting tranquilizer that is generally prescribed to treat things like panic and anxiety disorders, as well as insomnia. When taken in smaller doses, it acts to reduce anxiety and tension. When taken in higher doses, it acts as an intense sedative and muscle relaxant. Bromazepam is not prescribed in the United States but is a benzodiazepine similar to many others that are available such as Valium and Xanax brand names (others are Brozam, Lectopam, Lexomil, Lexotan, Lexilium, Lexaurin, Brazepam, Rekotnil, Bromaze, Somalium, Lexatin, Calmepam, Zepam and Lexotanil).

The reason Bromazepam is not available yet in the United States is that it has most likely not undergone enough studies for it to be approved in the US by the Food and Drug Administration. The DFA is notoriously strict when it comes to approving drugs for use. For a drug to be approved by the FDA, it must complete a five-step process: concept/discovery, preclinical research, clinical research, FDA review, and FDA post-market review. It costs over $2 billion to get a drug from a laboratory and onto the shelves of a pharmacy, and the full research, development, and approval process can last anywhere from 12 to 15 years.

Why is Bromazepam Not Prescribed in the United States?

Side Effects of Bromazepam

Bromazepam, a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety and insomnia, may cause various side effects. Commonly reported ones include drowsiness, dizziness, and fatigue, which can impair cognitive and motor functions. Users may also experience headaches, gastrointestinal discomfort, or changes in libido. Prolonged or excessive use may lead to dependency and withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation, emphasizing the importance of cautious and monitored usage. 

As with any medication, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and to be aware of potential risks associated with its use, especially if you have these adverse effects:

  • Severe Anxiety and panic attacks
  • behaviour changes (e.g., aggressiveness, agitation, unusual excitement, nervousness, or irritability)
  • Confusion
  • dizziness or lightheadedness when rising from a sitting or lying position
  • Falls
  • Fractures
  • hallucinations (hearing or seeing things that aren’t there)
  • memory loss of recent events
  • nightmares or trouble sleeping, sleep apnea
  • signs of depression (e.g., poor concentration, changes in weight, changes in sleep, decreased interest in activities, thoughts of suicide)
  • symptoms of withdrawal after stopping the medication (e.g., headache, seizures, extreme anxiety, sleep problems, restlessness, confusion, irritability)
  • urinary problems (leakage, increased urgency to urinate)

It was also advised to stop taking this medication and seek help or medical advice from the healthcare provider if you have the following:

  • seizures
  • signs of a serious allergic reaction (e.g., abdominal cramps, difficulty breathing, nausea and vomiting, or swelling of the face and throat)
  • thoughts of self-harm or suicide

Who should NOT take this medication?

Avoid using bromazepam if you:

  • are hypersensitive to any of the drug’s components, including bromazepam
  • possess an allergy to any further benzodiazepines
  • You have a myasthenia gravis.
  • suffer from narrow-angle glaucoma
  • have profound respiratory problems
  • have a serious liver condition
  • possess apnea during sleep.

Bromazepam Addiction Symptoms

This drug may also not be available in the United States because of its high likelihood of abuse and addiction. It is especially addictive due to how its active component modifies the actual chemical structure of your brain after use for an extended period.

Bromazepam typically comes in tablet form, and like many other benzodiazepines, it has a dark side that can easily lead to substance abuse for those who take it. Physical dependence usually occurs if the drug is taken in doses larger than what is prescribed by a doctor or for longer than they are supposed to. This drug is even potent enough that physical dependence can happen even if the drug is taken as prescribed.

This is why this drug is only prescribed in other countries for a short amount of time. This drug is typically abused because of the quick euphoric and intoxicating effect that is produced. Sadly, abusing this drug quickly leads to dependence and addiction, which in turn creates a whole list of health problems.

Bromazepam Withdrawal Symptoms

Once a person is addicted to Bromazepam, if you try quitting suddenly, you will experience what is called withdrawal symptoms. They can range from mild to severe, but at any level are very uncomfortable for the person experiencing it. Addiction, like any other disease, shows different symptoms, including:

  • Using the drug in larger amounts and for longer than intended
  • Experiencing drug cravings
  • Unsuccessful attempts to quit on their own
  • Continually using the drug even though you know it is negatively impacting your life and health
  • Withdrawal from activities you once enjoyed
  • A drop in production at work, school, familial obligations, and life in general.

Abusing Bromazepam for a long period can cause lasting side effects on a person’s brain and body. Not only does it cause physical and psychological addiction, but it can also cause problems with memory, sensory perception, speed processing, and your learning ability. There is also a link between Bromazepam abuse and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s.

Treatment for Benzodiazepine Addiction

If you or someone you love is abusing any benzodiazepine medication, it can be life-threatening, and help is needed to ensure safety when getting clean and sober. Our admissions counselors and professionals are available around the clock. We are ready to help you or a loved one overcome the disease of addiction. Now is the time to change your life. Let Garden State Treatment Center help you do it with a variety of treatment options.

FAQ

  • What is Bromazepam?
  • What are the differences between Bromazepam vs Xanax?
  • Which is better, Lexotanil or Xanax?
  • What are the possibility of interactions between Bromazepam and Opipramol?

Published on: 2020-07-30
Updated on: 2024-02-16