Halazepam


Halazepam is a benzodiazepine derivative that was marketed under the brand names Paxipam in the United States, Alapryl in Spain, and Pacinone in Portugal.

Medical uses

Halazepam was used for the treatment of anxiety.

Adverse effects

Adverse effects include drowsiness, confusion, dizziness, and sedation. Gastrointestinal side effects have also been reported including dry mouth and nausea.

Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics

Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics were listed in Current Psychotherapeutic Drugs published in June 15, 1998 as follows:
Onset of actionIntermediate to slow
Plasma half life14 hr for parent drug and 30-100 hr for its metabolite
Peak plasma levels1-3 hr for parent drug and 3-6 hf for its metabolite
MetabolismMetabolized into desmethyldiazepam and 3-hydroxyhalazepam
ExcretionExcreted through kidneys
Protein binding98% bound to plasma protein

Regulatory Information

Halazepam is classified as a schedule 4 controlled substance with a corresponding code 2762 by the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Commercial production

Halazepam was invented by Schlesinger Walter in the U.S. It was marketed as an anti-anxiety agent in 1981. However, Halazepam is not commercially available in the United States because it was withdrawn by its manufacturer for poor sales.