Generic Name: temazepam
Brand Name: Restoril
Drug Class: Sedatives, Anxiolytics, Benzodiazepines, Benzodiazepine
What is temazepam, and what is it used for?
Temazepam is a drug that is used for treating anxiety. It is in the benzodiazepine class of drugs, the same family that includes diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), flurazepam (Dalmane), lorazepam (Ativan), and others.
Temazepam and other benzodiazepines act by enhancing the effects of gamma- aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter (a chemical messenger that nerve cells use to communicate with each other) that inhibits many of the activities of the brain. It is believed that excessive activity in the brain may lead to anxiety or other psychiatric disorders and that temazepam reduces the activity. Temazepam increases total sleep time.
The FDA approved temazepam in February 1981.
What are the side effects of temazepam?
The most common side effects associated with temazepam are
Other important side effects include:
- depression,
- loss of orientation,
- headache, and
- sleep disturbances.
SLIDESHOW
Sleep Disorders: Foods That Help Sleep or Keep You Awake See SlideshowWhat is the dosage for temazepam?
The recommended dose of temazepam is 7.5 to 30 mg taken about 30 minutes prior to bedtime. For elderly patients, start with 7.5 mg until the response is determined.
Which drugs interact with temazepam?
Alcohol or drugs that cause sleepiness increase the effects of temazepam.
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Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Temazepam and other benzodiazepines have been associated with fetal damage, including congenital malformations, when taken by pregnant women in their first trimester. Temazepam should be avoided during pregnancy.
Use by nursing mothers has not been adequately studied.
Summary
Temazepam (Restoril) is a drug prescribed for the treatment of anxiety and insomnia. The most common side effects associated with temazepam are excessive sleepiness, dizziness, weakness, and unsteadiness. Temazepam should be avoided during pregnancy due to the potential risk for fetal harm.
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