What is temazepam, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
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 brand names are available for temazepam?
Restoril
Is temazepam available as a generic drug?
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
Do I need a prescription for temazepam?
Yes
What are the side effects of temazepam?
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.
What 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 or supplements interact with temazepam?
Alcohol or drugs that cause sleepiness increase the
effects of temazepam.
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Is temazepam safe to take if I’m pregnant or 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.
What else should I know about temazepam?
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).