From the Guidelines
Temazepam is used for the treatment of insomnia, specifically for sleep onset and sleep maintenance insomnia in adults. It belongs to the benzodiazepine class of medications and works by enhancing the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA in the brain, which produces a calming effect and helps induce sleep 1. The typical dosage for adults is 7.5 to 30 mg taken before bedtime, with treatment generally limited to 7-10 days due to the risk of dependence and tolerance.
Some key points to consider when using temazepam include:
- It should be used cautiously as it can cause side effects including drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination 1
- It may also lead to morning grogginess or "hangover" effects
- This medication is not recommended for long-term use because benzodiazepines can be habit-forming and may lose effectiveness over time
- Patients should avoid alcohol while taking temazepam as the combination can dangerously increase sedation
- Those with respiratory conditions, liver disease, or a history of substance abuse should use this medication with particular caution 1
It's worth noting that while temazepam can be effective for insomnia, it's not typically used for hot flashes, which are often treated with other medications such as antidepressants or anticonvulsants 1. However, temazepam's sedative effects may help improve sleep quality in patients who experience hot flashes at night.
From the FDA Drug Label
Indications and Usage Temazepam Capsules, USP are indicated for the short-term treatment of insomnia (generally 7 to 10 days). Temazepam is used for the short-term treatment of insomnia. 2
From the Research
Temazepam Usage
- Temazepam is used for the treatment of insomnia, specifically for improving sleep maintenance and sleep onset 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
- It is a benzodiazepine hypnotic that has been shown to be effective in reducing sleep latency and increasing sleep time in patients with insomnia 3, 5.
- Temazepam is available in different doses, including 7.5 mg, 15 mg, and 30 mg, and its effects on sleep have been studied in various clinical trials 3, 5, 7.
- The medication has been found to have a low propensity for producing rebound insomnia, making it a suitable option for short-term use and intermittent treatment as needed 3, 6.
Comparison with Other Medications
- Temazepam has been compared to other medications used to treat insomnia, including zolpidem, melatonin, and other benzodiazepines 4, 7.
- Studies have shown that temazepam has a different mechanism of action compared to melatonin and zolpidem, and its effects on the sleep EEG are distinct from these medications 7.
- Temazepam has been found to reduce slow-wave activity during sleep, whereas melatonin has a minor effect on the sleep EEG 7.
Clinical Use
- Temazepam is typically used for the short-term treatment of insomnia, and its use should be limited to a few weeks or less 3, 6.
- The medication should be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional, and patients should be monitored for potential side effects, such as daytime sedation and dependence 3, 6.