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|Temazepam Temazepam

Temazepam

Generic name: Temazepam
Brand names: Restoril

Why is Temazepam prescribed?

Temazepam is used for the relief of insomnia (difficulty in falling asleep, waking up frequently at night, or waking up early in the morning). It belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines.

Most important fact about Temazepam

Sleep problems are usually temporary, requiring treatment for only a short time, usually 1 or 2 days and no more than 2 to 3 weeks. Insomnia that lasts longer than this may be a sign of another medical problem. If you find you need this medicine for more than 7 to 10 days, be sure to check with your doctor.

How should you take Temazepam?

Take Temazepam exactly as directed; never take more than the prescribed amount.

--If you miss a dose...

Take only as needed.

--Storage instructions...

Keep Temazepam in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children. Store it at room temperature.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Temazepam.

• More common side effects may include:
  Dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, headache, nausea, nervousness, sluggishness

• Side effects due to rapid decrease in dose or abrupt withdrawal from Temazepam:
  Abdominal and muscle cramps, convulsions, feeling of discomfort, inability to fall asleep or stay asleep, sweating, tremors, vomiting

Why should Temazepam not be prescribed?

If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, you should not take Temazepam. It poses a potential risk to the developing baby.

Special warnings about Temazepam

When you take Temazepam every night for more than a few weeks, it loses its effectiveness to help you sleep. This is known as tolerance. You can also develop physical dependence on Temazepam, especially if you take it regularly for more than a few weeks, or take high doses.

When you first start taking Temazepam, until you know whether the medication will have any "carry over" effect the next day, use extreme care while doing anything that requires complete alertness such as driving a car or operating machinery.

If you are severely depressed or have suffered from severe depression, in the past, consult your doctor before taking Temazepam.

If you have kidney or liver problems or chronic lung disease, make sure your doctor is aware of it.

After you stop taking Temazepam, you may have more trouble sleeping than you had before you started taking it. This is called "rebound insomnia" and should clear up after 1 or 2 nights.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Temazepam

Temazepam may intensify the effects of alcohol. Do not drink alcohol while taking Temazepam.

If Temazepam is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Temazepam with the following:

Antidepressant drugs such as Elavil, Nardil, Parnate, and Tofranil
Antihistamines such as Benadryl
Barbiturates such as phenobarbital and Seconal
Major tranquilizers such as Mellaril and Thorazine
Narcotic pain relievers such as Percocet and Demerol
Tranquilizers such as Valium and Xanax

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Do not take Temazepam if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. There is an increased risk of birth defects. This drug may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If Temazepam is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with Temazepam is finished.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

The usual recommended dose is 15 milligrams at bedtime; however, 7.5 milligrams may be all that is necessary, while some people may need 30 milligrams. Your doctor will tailor your dose to your needs.

CHILDREN

The safety and effectiveness of Temazepam have not been established in children under 18 years of age.

OLDER ADULTS

The doctor will prescribe the smallest effective amount in order to avoid side effects such as oversedation, dizziness, confusion, and lack of muscle coordination. The usual starting dose is 7.5 milligrams.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.

• The symptoms of Temazepam overdose may include:
  Coma, confusion, diminished reflexes, low blood pressure, labored or difficult breathing, sleepiness