Halazepam
Halazepam is a benzodiazepine medication that was primarily prescribed for the management of anxiety disorders. It acts as a central nervous system depressant, producing calming effects through enhancement of GABA neurotransmitter activity in the brain. This medication was used for short-term relief of severe anxiety symptoms.
A benzodiazepine anxiolytic medication used for short-term treatment of severe anxiety that enhances GABA activity in the brain.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- N05BA13
- RxNorm
- 26412
- Generic
- Halazepam
- Class
- atc-n05
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Dosage and administration
- Usual dose
- 500mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 250mg twice daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- every 12 hours
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
- Usual dose
- 400mg daily
- Maximum
- consult physician
- Frequency
- once daily
- Instructions
- Follow physician instructions
- Duration limits
- as prescribed
- Monitoring
- standard
Overdose information
Special Populations
9 groupspregnancy
first trimesteravoid if possible
avoid use during pregnancy unless benefits outweigh risks
regular fetal monitoring
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
pregnancy
third trimesteravoid
avoid use near delivery due to risk of neonatal sedation and withdrawal
fetal monitoring and assessment for neonatal withdrawal symptoms
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
lactation
breastfeedingavoid
do not breastfeed during treatment - drug passes into breast milk
not applicable
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
geriatric
elderlyreduce dose by 50%
use lowest effective dose, monitor for excessive sedation and falls
regular assessment of cognitive function and balance
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
pediatric_age
children adolescentsnot recommended
not approved for use in pediatric populations
not applicable
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
renal_impairment
mild to moderatereduce dose by 25-50%
use with caution, monitor renal function
monitor renal function tests periodically
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
renal_impairment
severeavoid or use minimal dose
not recommended due to significantly reduced clearance
close monitoring of renal function
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
hepatic_impairment
mild to moderatereduce dose by 25-50%
use with caution, metabolized in liver
monitor liver function tests
Use with caution and monitor for adverse effects.
hepatic_impairment
severeavoid
contraindicated in severe hepatic impairment
not applicable
Use of this medication in this population requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.
Statistics and clinical data
Market availability
Halazepam was withdrawn from the US market in 1992
Drug class
ATC Classification N05BA (benzodiazepine derivatives)
Common uses
Therapeutic indications for halazepam
Halazepam was used for the treatment of anxiety disorders, including generalized anxiety and anxiety associated with depression. It was typically prescribed for short-term use due to risks of dependence.
As a benzodiazepine, Halazepam enhances the effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. This results in increased chloride ion influx into neurons, reducing neuronal excitability and producing anxiolytic, sedative, and muscle relaxant effects.
Benzodiazepines carry risks of dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal with prolonged use. Sedation, dizziness, and cognitive impairment may occur, particularly in elderly patients. Combination with alcohol or other CNS depressants can be dangerous. Use requires careful medical supervision and gradual dose tapering when discontinuing.
Contraindications
Conditions and patient states where this medication should be avoided or used with caution.
Do not use (1)
Known allergy to this medication or its components
Use caution (1)
Consult healthcare provider for benefits vs risks assessment
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy