Useful for the treatment of insomnia
Long-acting benzodiazepine
Flurazepam, a benzodiazepine derivative, is a hypnotic agent which does not appear to decrease dream time as measured by rapid eye movements (REM). Furthermore, it decreases sleep latency and number of awakenings for a consequent increase in total sleep time. Flurazepam binds to an allosteric site on GABA-A receptors. Binding potentiates the action of GABA on GABA-A receptors by opening the chloride channel within the receptor, causing chloride influx and hyperpolarization.
Insomnia (short-term use) BY MOUTH Adult: 15-30 mg once daily, dose to be taken at bedtime, for debilitated patients, use elderly dose Elderly: 15 mg once daily, dose to be taken at bedtime
Flurazepam potentiates other CNS depressants such as alcohol, barbiturates, sedative antidepressants, antihistamines and antipsychotic drugs. Cimetidine moderately prolongs the already long half-life of the active metabolite desalkyl flurazepam. Antacids may delay the absorption of benzodiazepines.
Not for use alone to treat chronic psychosis . not for use alone to treat depression (or anxiety associated with depression) . respiratory depression Acute porphyrias p. 930 . hypoalbuminaemia . marked personality disorder . muscle weakness
Common or very common Amnesia . ataxia (especially in the elderly) . confusion (especially in the elderly) . dependence . drowsiness the next day . lightheadedness the next day . muscle weakness . paradoxical increase in aggression Uncommon Changes in libido . dizziness . dysarthria . gastro-intestinal disturbances . gynaecomastia . headache . hypotension . incontinence . salivation changes . slurred speech . tremor . urinary retention . vertigo . visual disturbances Rare Apnoea . blood disorders . jaundice . respiratory depression . skin reactions
This drug should be used during pregnancy only if the benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. Benzodiazepines are present in milk, and should be avoided if possible during breast-feeding.
Flurazepam overdosage includes somnolence, confusion and coma. Respiration, pulse and blood pressure should be monitored as in all cases of drug overdosage. General supportive measures should be employed, along with immediate gastric lavage.
Keep below 30°C temperature, away from light & moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.
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