Restoril

Generic name: Temazepam

What is Restoril?

Restoril is used for the relief of insomnia.

What is the most important information I should know about Restoril?

Sleep problems are usually temporary, requiring treatment for only a short time, usually 1 or 2 days and no more than 2 to 3 weeks. Insomnia that lasts longer than this may be a sign of another medical problem. If you find you need this medicine for more than 7 to 10 days, be sure to check with your doctor.

After you stop taking Restoril, you may have more trouble sleeping than you did before you started taking it. This is called "rebound insomnia" and should clear up after one or two nights.

When you first start taking Restoril, until you know how this medicine affects you, try to avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving a car, or operating heavy machinery.

While taking Restoril, you may get up out of bed while not being fully awake and perform an activity that you do not know you are doing—nor remember the next morning. You have a greater chance of this if you drink alcohol or take other medicines that make you sleepy.

If you take Restoril every night for more than a few weeks, it loses its effectiveness to help you sleep. You can also develop physical dependence on this drug, especially if you take it regularly for more than a few weeks, or if you take more than is prescribed.

Who should not take Restoril?

If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, you should not take this medicine. It poses a potential risk to the developing baby.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Restoril?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Restoril. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you are, or have been diagnosed with depression in the past, have kidney or liver problems, or if you have chronic lung disease. Let your doctor know if you have a history of alcohol or drug abuse.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual recommended dose is 15 milligrams (mg) at bedtime; however, 7.5 mg may be adequate. Your doctor will tailor your dose depending on your needs.

How should I take Restoril?

Take Restoril exactly as prescribed; do not take more than is prescribed by your doctor.

Take Restoril right before you get into bed, not sooner.

Do not take Restoril unless you are able to get a full night's sleep (7 to 8 hours) before you must be active again.

What should I avoid while taking Restoril?

Avoid drinking alcohol, or taking other medicines that can make you sleepy.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Restoril?

If Restoril is used with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Restoril with the following: alcohol, antidepressants, antihistamines, benzodiazepines, and narcotic painkillers.

What are the possible side effects of Restoril?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: drowsiness, headache, fatigue, nervousness, dizziness, nausea, "hangover" feeling the next morning

Side effects due to rapid decrease in dose or abrupt withdrawal from Restoril: abdominal and muscle cramps, convulsions, feeling of discomfort, inability to fall asleep or stay asleep, sweating, tremors, vomiting

Side effects due to overdose: coma, confusion, diminished reflexes, low blood pressure, difficulty breathing

Can I receive Restoril if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Do not take Restoril if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. There is an increased risk of birth defects. This drug may appear in breast milk and could affect a nursing infant. If this medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to stop breastfeeding until your treatment with this medication is finished.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Restoril?

Take this medicine only when you need it.

How should I store Restoril?

Store at room temperature in a tightly sealed container. Do not share this medicine with anyone.