Maximum Quantity of Temazepam Per Prescription
The FDA-approved labeling does not specify a maximum quantity limit per prescription for temazepam, and state-specific regulations vary—you must consult your state's Board of Pharmacy or controlled substance authority for [STATE]'s specific dispensing limits on Schedule IV controlled substances. 1
Federal Regulations
- The DEA classifies temazepam as a Schedule IV controlled substance, which permits prescribing for up to 6 months (180 days) under federal law, but does not mandate a specific quantity limit per prescription 1
- The FDA label recommends dosing of 7.5-30 mg nightly, with 15 mg as the usual adult dose and 7.5 mg for elderly or debilitated patients 1
State-Level Variability
State pharmacy boards and controlled substance monitoring programs establish their own quantity limits for Schedule IV medications, which supersede federal guidelines. Common state-imposed restrictions include:
- 30-day supply limits (most common across states)
- 90-day supply limits for maintenance therapy in some states
- Specific tablet/capsule count maximums regardless of days' supply
- Prior authorization requirements for quantities exceeding standard limits
Clinical Dosing Context
- Standard dosing ranges from 7.5-30 mg nightly, meaning a 30-day supply could range from 30 capsules (7.5 mg × 30 days) to 30 capsules (30 mg × 30 days) 1
- The American Academy of Sleep Medicine recommends temazepam 15 mg for both sleep onset and sleep maintenance insomnia, suggesting this as the typical prescribed strength 2
- Elderly patients should initiate therapy at 7.5 mg until individual responses are determined 1
Critical Prescribing Considerations
- Short-term use is recommended—the American Academy of Sleep Medicine guidelines emphasize that hypnotic treatment should be time-limited and supplemented with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) 3
- Temazepam carries risks of dependence, withdrawal reactions, falls, and cognitive impairment, particularly in elderly patients 3, 4
- Gradual tapering is required when discontinuing to reduce withdrawal risk 1
Action Steps for [STATE]
- Contact [STATE] Board of Pharmacy directly for current quantity limits on Schedule IV controlled substances
- Check [STATE] Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) requirements for reporting thresholds
- Review [STATE] Medicaid/insurance formularies if applicable, as payers often impose stricter limits than state law
- Verify DEA registration compliance for controlled substance prescribing in [STATE]