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benzodiazepines (sleep-inducing)-oral

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GENERIC NAME: BENZODIAZEPINES (SLEEP-INDUCING) - ORAL

Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage

USES: This medication is used to treat insomnia (sleeping disorders).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication 15 to 30 minutes before bedtime as directed. Take this with food or milk if stomach upset occurs. Do not suddenly stop taking this medication without first consulting your doctor if you have been taking this for some time. It may be necessary to gradually decrease the dose. Take this exactly as prescribed. Do not increase the dose or take this for longer than prescribed. Tolerance may develop with long-term or excessive use making it less effective.

SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset, blurred vision, headache, dizziness, depression, impaired coordination, trembling, nightmares, weakness, memory loss, hangover effect (grogginess) or clouded thinking may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor promptly. Report promptly: mental confusion, seizures. Very unlikely but report promptly: rapid heartbeat, yellowing eyes or skin, fever. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Also limit your intake of alcoholic beverages which will aggravate these effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, liver disease, a history of drug dependence, history of depression, breathing problems, apnea, seizures, any allergies. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the affects of the drug. This medication must not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before you breast-feed.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: medication for depression, anti-seizure drugs, narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), sedatives. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration   You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088. Need help identifying pills and medications? Use the pill identifier tool on RxList.