Temazepam
RESTORIL
What it isIntermediate-duration GABA-A positive allosteric modulator; insomnia.
Why it mattersGlucuronidation rather than oxidative metabolism makes it a cleaner hypnotic choice in liver disease.
What it changesDependence, withdrawal, and falls limit use; combining it with opioids can cause fatal respiratory depression.
FDA-approved for
- insomnia (1981)
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Insomnia (short-term) | Adults | 15 mg QHS | 15 mg QHS (range 7.5–30 mg) | 30 mg QHS |
| Insomnia | Elderly/debilitated | 7.5 mg QHS | 7.5 mg QHS until response determined |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Undefined
Instructions
- Take orally before retiring
- 7.5 mg may suffice for transient insomnia
Contraindications
- Pregnancy (Category X) — may cause fetal harm
Cautions
- CNS depression / next-day impairment
- Abuse, dependence, and withdrawal potential (benzodiazepine)
- Neonatal CNS depression with use in late pregnancy
Adverse reactions
- Drowsiness, headache, fatigue, nervousness, lethargy, dizziness, nausea, hangover
Pregnancy Contraindicated (Category X) — may cause fetal harm
Lactation Undefined
⚠ BOXED WARNINGS
- Risk from concomitant use with opioids
- Abuse, misuse and addiction
- Dependence and withdrawal reactions
Cost, est. cash$5–$150/month
Generic entry1985
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Legacy pregnancy categoryX
Defining liabilitySedation, falls, dependence and additive respiratory depression with opioids or other CNS depressants.
Active metabolites
Mechanism of action: Temazepam ballicule
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