Nordazepam

Nordazepam (marketed under brand names Stilny&reg;, Madar&reg;, Vegesan&reg;, and Calmday&reg;), also known as nordiazepam and desmethyldiazepam, is a 1,4-benzodiazepine derivative. Like other benzodiazepine derivatives, it has anticonvulsant, anxiolytic, muscle relaxant and sedative properties. However, it is used primarily in the treatment of anxiety. It is an active metabolite of diazepam, chlordiazepoxide, clorazepate, prazepam, and medazepam.

Side effects
Common side effects of nordazepam include somnolence, which is more common in elderly patients and/or people on high dose regimens. Hypotonia, which is much less common, is also associated with high doses and/or old age.

Interactions
Benzodiazepines including N-desmethyldiazepam (nordazepam) may inhibit the glucuronidation of morphine leading to increased levels of and prolongation of the effects of morphine.

Abuse
Nordazepam and other sedative hypnotic drugs are detected frequently in cases of people suspected of driving under the influence of drugs. Other benzodiazepines and zolpidem and zopiclone are also found in high numbers of suspected drugged drivers. Many drivers have blood levels far exceeding the therapeutic dose range suggesting a high degree of abuse potential for benzodiazepines and zolpidem and zopiclone.