Flurazepam

This benzodiazepine is used for short-term treatment of significant insomnia where approved. Ongoing insomnia needs assessment and a review of alternatives such as CBT-I.

It enhances GABA signaling, promoting sleep while also affecting memory, coordination, and breathing.

Effects can begin after the first dose. The timing and duration depend on the formulation and dose. Sleepiness or impaired coordination may last longer than the relief you notice.

Your provider should review whether ongoing treatment is helping and whether the dose or duration should change. Do not increase the dose when the effect seems weaker.

• Take only at bedtime when a full seven to eight hours are available for sleep.
• Do not take a daytime catch-up dose or a second dose in the same night.
• Avoid alcohol. Do not drive the next day if sleepy or impaired.
• Consult with your provider before stopping after regular use.

• Sleepiness, slowed reactions, or fatigue
• Dizziness, poor balance, or falls
• Memory problems or difficulty concentrating

Some side effects resolve with time; others may require a change of medication. Discuss persistent or bothersome side effects with your provider.

Watch for daytime sedation, falls, memory changes, and breathing problems. Older adults and people taking other sedatives may be more sensitive.

Physical dependence can develop with regular use. Sudden stopping or a rapid reduction can cause severe withdrawal, including seizures. Dependence is different from addiction, but misuse and addiction are also possible.

For a suspected overdose, call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 immediately, even if you feel well. Call 911 for a seizure, collapse, trouble breathing, or inability to wake.

Discuss sleep apnea, lung disease, liver or kidney disease, glaucoma, falls, and any history of substance use problems. Tell your provider about all opioids and other sedatives.

Discuss pregnancy, pregnancy plans, and breastfeeding with your provider. Treatment decisions should consider both the medication and the condition being treated.

Review all your medications with your provider, including over-the-counter medicines and supplements. Have new medications checked before taking them.

Combining a benzodiazepine with an opioid can cause profound sedation, slowed breathing, coma, or death. Use such combinations only under a specifically reviewed treatment plan.

Avoid alcohol. Sleeping pills, sedating antihistamines, muscle relaxants, and other sedatives can increase impairment and breathing risks.

Tell your provider if morning sleepiness or falls increase after several nights.

Do not drive until you know how the medication affects you. Avoid driving whenever sleepy or impaired.

Keep medication locked away. Never share it, even with someone who has similar symptoms.

Arrange refills or taper instructions before you run out.

Keep medication in its labeled container, away from excess heat and moisture and out of reach of children and pets. Do not share it. Ask a pharmacy about disposal of unused medication.