Generic medicine

Flurazepam: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Flurazepam is indicated for the short-term treatment (generally 7 to 10 days, up to a maximum of 2-4 weeks) of insomnia characterized by difficulty falling asleep, frequent nighttime awakenings and more.

Forms:Capsule

About Flurazepam

Indications of Flurazepam

Flurazepam is indicated for the short-term treatment (generally 7 to 10 days, up to a maximum of 2-4 weeks) of insomnia characterized by difficulty falling asleep, frequent nighttime awakenings, and/or early morning awakening.

  • Established/FDA-approved use: short-term management of insomnia in adults.
  • Not indicated for chronic, long-term, nightly use; insomnia that persists beyond 7-10 days may indicate an underlying medical or psychiatric condition that should be evaluated.

Flurazepam does not treat the underlying cause of insomnia and provides only symptomatic relief.

Dosage & Administration of Flurazepam

Dosage of Flurazepam

Population/IndicationRecommended Dose
Adults (short-term insomnia)15 mg to 30 mg orally at bedtime
Elderly or debilitated patients15 mg orally at bedtime initially, to reduce risk of oversedation, dizziness, and falls
Pediatric patientsNot recommended; safety and efficacy not established in patients under 15 years of age
Hepatic impairmentUse lowest effective dose with caution; clearance of active metabolite is prolonged
Renal impairmentUse with caution; dose reduction may be needed given prolonged drug/metabolite clearance

Administration

Take Flurazepam by mouth immediately before going to bed, as it has a rapid onset of action. Do not take Flurazepam unless you are able to get a full night's sleep (at least 7-8 hours) before you need to be active again, due to the risk of next-day drowsiness.

Flurazepam should be used for the shortest duration possible. Do not increase the dose or frequency on your own. Do not stop taking Flurazepam abruptly after prolonged use; a physician-guided gradual taper is recommended to reduce the risk of withdrawal symptoms, including seizures.

Side Effects of Flurazepam

Common Side Effects

  • Daytime drowsiness, dizziness, and lightheadedness
  • Ataxia (unsteady gait), staggering, and increased risk of falls (especially in the elderly)
  • Headache
  • Nausea, vomiting, heartburn, and upset stomach
  • Dry mouth, bitter taste

Less Common but Serious Side Effects

  • Complex sleep-related behaviors (sleep-walking, sleep-driving, or preparing/eating food while not fully awake, with no memory of the event)
  • Respiratory depression, particularly when combined with opioids or other CNS depressants (see Interactions and Precautions)
  • Paradoxical reactions such as agitation, aggression, hallucinations, or worsened insomnia (more common in children and the elderly)
  • Physical dependence and withdrawal symptoms with prolonged use (see Precautions)
  • Allergic reactions including rash or, rarely, angioedema

Contraindications of Flurazepam

Flurazepam is contraindicated in patients with:

  • Known hypersensitivity to Flurazepam or to other benzodiazepines.
  • Pregnancy, due to the potential for fetal harm (see Pregnancy and Lactation).

Frequently Asked Questions about Flurazepam

What is Flurazepam used for?

Flurazepam is a benzodiazepine used for the short-term treatment of insomnia, helping people fall asleep faster and stay asleep through the night. It is not intended for long-term or nightly use beyond a few weeks.

How should I take Flurazepam?

Take Flurazepam by mouth immediately before bedtime, only when you can devote a full 7-8 hours to sleep. Do not take extra doses or use it for longer than your physician has prescribed.

Can I take Flurazepam with alcohol or other sedatives?

No. Combining Flurazepam with alcohol, opioids, or other central nervous system depressants can cause severe drowsiness, slowed or stopped breathing, coma, or death. Avoid alcohol and inform your doctor of all other medicines you take.

Is Flurazepam safe during pregnancy?

No, Flurazepam is contraindicated during pregnancy because of the risk of fetal harm. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, tell your doctor before using Flurazepam so a safer alternative can be considered.

Can I stop taking Flurazepam suddenly?

Not after prolonged use. Stopping Flurazepam abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety, insomnia rebound, tremor, and in severe cases seizures. Your physician will guide you through a gradual dose reduction.

What should I do if I miss a dose or take too much Flurazepam?

Since Flurazepam is taken only at bedtime as needed, skip a missed dose and do not double up. If an overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical attention or contact a poison control center immediately, especially if combined with alcohol or other sedatives.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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