temazepam (Restoril)

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.

Restoril

GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes

Yes

The most common side effects associated with temazepam are

• excessive sleepiness,
• dizziness,
• weakness, and
• unsteadiness.

Other important side effects include:

• depression,
• loss of orientation,
• headache, and
• sleep disturbances.

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.

Alcohol or drugs that cause sleepiness increase the effects of temazepam.

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.

What preparations of temazepam are available?

Capsules: 7.5, 15, 22.5, and 30 mg

How should I keep temazepam stored?

Capsules should be kept at room temperature, 20 C - 25 C (68 F - 77 F).