Temazepam (By Mouth)

Temazepam (tem-AZ-e-pam)

Treats insomnia (trouble sleeping). This medicine is a benzodiazepine.

Brand Name(s):

Restoril
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use temazepam if you have had an allergic reaction to temazepam or to similar medicines (such as Valium®). You should not use this medicine if you are pregnant.

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to take and how often. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to. This medicine is not for long-term use.
• This medicine is usually taken just before bedtime, or when you are having trouble falling asleep.

If a dose is missed:

• Use this medicine only when you cannot sleep. You do not need to keep a schedule for taking it. Do not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.
• Keep all medicine away from children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using theophylline.
• Do not drink alcohol or grapefruit juice while you are using this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using any medicines that make you sleepy (such as sleeping pills, cold and allergy medicine, narcotic pain relievers, or sedatives).

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Using this medicine while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are breastfeeding, or if you have breathing problems, liver disease, or kidney disease.
• Tell your doctor if you have been addicted to alcohol or other drugs, or if you have a history of depression or mental illness.
• This medicine may be habit-forming. If you feel that the medicine is not working as well, do not take more than your prescribed dose. Call your doctor for instructions.
• Taking too much of this medicine can cause death. Symptoms of an overdose include: Severe confusion, problems with memory or balance, shortness of breath, slow heartbeat, seizures, severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, increased sweating, and cold, clammy skin.
• This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Lightheadedness or fainting
• Seizures
• Severe confusion, drowsiness, or muscle weakness
• Severe nausea or vomiting, stomach pain, increased sweating
• Tremors or muscle cramps
• Unusual behavior or thoughts of hurting yourself

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Dry mouth
• Loss of appetite
• Hangover feeling
• Trouble concentrating

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.