Temazepam (Restoril, Normison)

Temazepam is a widely recognized medication in Australia, belonging to the class of drugs known as benzodiazepines. It functions primarily as a gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) modulator, which influences brain activity to produce a calming effect. This medication is effective in inducing sedation, promoting sleep (hypnosis), relaxing skeletal muscles, controlling seizures (anticonvulsant activity), and alleviating anxiety (anxiolytic action).

While the chemical synthesis of temazepam was achieved in 1965, it was not until later that its benefits as an insomnia treatment gained acceptance and approval for mainstream use. Interestingly, before it became a common prescription for civilians, temazepam was utilized by the Australian military as a sedative-hypnotic medication, allowing soldiers and pilots to achieve necessary rest for physical recovery and the readiness required for various maneuvers and operations. Today, temazepam is one of the most frequently prescribed medications worldwide, with millions of prescriptions issued each year. However, its high frequency of use comes with significant risks, as temazepam – similar to other benzodiazepines – carries a substantial potential for misuse and can lead to drug tolerance, physical dependence, and addiction.

In Australia, temazepam is primarily prescribed to treat insomnia, a specific sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep. It aids individuals in falling asleep more quickly, maintaining a deeper sleep for longer periods, and reducing the number of times they wake up throughout the night. As a member of the benzodiazepine family, it acts on the brain to create a soothing and calming sensation.

Typically, the use of temazepam is recommended for short durations, generally ranging from one to two weeks or even less. If the issue of insomnia persists beyond this period, it’s crucial to consult a healthcare provider to explore alternative treatment options.

Before starting temazepam, it is vital to read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist and to review it with each refill. Should any questions arise, don’t hesitate to seek clarification from your doctor or pharmacist.

Temazepam is taken orally, either with or without food, and should be consumed as directed by your healthcare provider, usually just before bedtime in Australia. The prescribed dosage will depend on your medical condition, age, and how you respond to the treatment.

Although rare, one possible side effect of temazepam is temporary short-term memory loss. To minimize this risk, it is advised not to take the medication unless you have the opportunity for a full night’s sleep, ideally lasting at least 7 to 8 hours. Waking up prematurely may result in memory complications.

Should you abruptly discontinue the medication, withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, flushing, abdominal cramps, anxiety, and shakiness may occur. To mitigate withdrawal risks, your doctor might recommend gradually reducing your dosage. This risk is more pronounced if you have been using temazepam for an extended period or in high doses. Notify your healthcare provider immediately if you experience withdrawal symptoms.

Prolonged use of temazepam may lead to diminished effectiveness. If you notice the medication is no longer providing the same benefits, discuss this with your doctor.

While many individuals find relief with this medication, there is an inherent risk of developing an addiction, particularly if there is a history of substance use disorders, including misuse of drugs or alcohol. For this reason, it’s crucial to adhere strictly to prescribed dosages to reduce the likelihood of dependency. For more information on this risk, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

If your insomnia persists beyond 7 to 10 days, or worsens during treatment with temazepam, it is important to inform your healthcare provider right away.

After ceasing the use of temazepam, you may experience difficulties sleeping for a few nights, a phenomenon known as rebound insomnia, which is a common occurrence in Australia. Although it typically resolves after one or two nights, if these sleeping issues continue, reach out to your doctor for guidance.