Temazepam

What is temazepam?

Temazepam is a prescription medicine from the benzodiazepine class. It is mainly used as a short-term treatment for severe insomnia. It may also be used to relieve anxiety before surgery or certain medical procedures[1]. 

What is temazepam used for?

Temazepam is prescribed for the following conditions[1]: 

• Short-term insomnia (typically 2 to 4 weeks) 

• Reducing anxiety and helping patients sleep before medical or dental surgery 

How does temazepam work?

Temazepam works by enhancing the effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a natural calming chemical in the brain. By slowing brain activity, it helps you relax, fall asleep faster, and stay asleep longer[1].  

Who can take temazepam?

Temazepam is suitable for most adults aged 18 and over. However, it may not be safe for everyone. You should not take temazepam if you[1]: 

• Are allergic to benzodiazepines 

• Have severe liver problems 

• Have sleep apnoea 

• Have myasthenia gravis 

• Have a history of mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, psychosis or substance misuse disorders 

• Have acute narrow angle glaucoma 

• Are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding 

Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have or medication you take before you start treatment, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2].  

What is the typical dosage of temazepam?

Temazepam comes as 10mg and 20mg tablets. Temazepam liquid contains 10mg of temazepam in each 5ml. The dosage depends on your age, general health, and the condition being treated[1]: 

• For sleep problems in adults, the dosage is 10mg to 20mg, taken once a day usually at bedtime 

• In some cases, your doctor may prescribe a higher dose of 30mg to 40mg. If you’re over 65 and at risk of falling over, your dose may be lower 

Temazepam should only be used for short periods (generally no longer than 4 weeks, including tapering). It is important to take temazepam exactly as prescribed, and to not take more than you should. 

How do you take temazepam?

To get the best results and reduce risks, follow these instructions when taking temazepam[1]: 

• For insomnia, take your dose just before going to bed. Otherwise follow the advice of your prescriber 

• Swallow tablets whole with water 

• Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine 

• Avoid driving or using machinery the next day if you feel drowsy 

Can you stop taking temazepam?

Yes, but you should never stop taking temazepam suddenly. Doing so can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as[1]: 

• Anxiety 

• Insomnia 

• Irritability 

• Sweating 

• Tremors 

A gradual reduction under your pharmacist or doctor’s guidance is recommended. 

What do you do if you take too much temazepam?

If you think you’ve taken too much temazepam, seek emergency medical help immediately. Signs of overdose may include[1]: 

• Extreme drowsiness 

• Confusion 

• Slurred speech 

• Difficulty breathing 

• Loss of consciousness 

What do you do if you forget to take temazepam?

When taking for insomnia, if you forget to take temazepam at bedtime[1]: 

• Skip the missed dose 

• Do not take it in the morning or double your next dose 

What medicines can’t you take with temazepam?

Some substances can interact with temazepam and increase the risk of drowsiness or serious side effects. Before starting temazepam, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking any of the following[1]: 

• Alcohol 

• Strong, opioid painkillers such as codeine or morphine 

• Antipsychotics like chlorpromazine 

• Tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline 

• Sedating antihistamines 

• Anticonvulsants, to treat epilepsy 

• Hypnotics, to treat anxiety or sleep disorders 

• Fluconazole, to treat fungal infections 

• Baclofen or tizanidine, to treat muscle spams 

• Cimetidine, to reduce stomach acid 

• Disulfiram, to treat alcohol addiction 

• Levodopa, to treat Parkinson's disease 

• Lofexidine, to treat drug addiction 

• Theophylline, to treat asthma 

• Rifampicin, to treat tuberculosis (TB) 

• Ritonavir, to treat HIV 

• Other sleeping tablets or sedatives 

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

What are the side effects of temazepam?

Like all medicines, temazepam can cause side effects. Common ones include[1]: 

• Drowsiness the next day 

• Light-headedness 

• Confusion 

• Muscle weakness 

• Poor coordination 

Serious side effects that require urgent medical attention include[1]: 

• Memory loss 

• Hallucinations 

• Mood or behaviour changes 

• Breathing difficulties 

• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as swelling or rash 

You should contact your GP if you experience any of these symptoms. In rare cases, the medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). You should call 999 or visit A&E immediately if you believe this is happening[1]. 

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include[1]:  

• Difficulty breathing or peeing  

• Tightness in throat and chest  

• Swelling of the tongue or throat  

• Heart palpitations 

• Poor coordination or weak muscles 

• Slurred speech 

• Memory loss or confusion 

• Feeling faint or dizzy  

• Blue/grey skin or lips  

• Loss of consciousness 

 If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice. 

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2]. 

Frequently asked questions about temazepam

Is temazepam addictive? 
A short course of low dose temazepam is unlikely to cause addiction, however the chances of addiction forming is increased if there is a history of substance misuse or if you are taking temazepam for a long time or at high doses[1]. 

Can I drink alcohol while taking temazepam? 
No. Alcohol increases the sedative effects and the risk of serious side effects. You should also avoid caffeine as it’s a stimulant that can reduce the effects of the drug[1]. 

Can I drive the next day? 
Only if you feel fully alert. Drowsiness may persist and affect your ability to drive safely. If you have any doubt, do not drive[1]. 

Is temazepam safe during pregnancy? 
No. It may harm the baby and cause withdrawal symptoms in newborns[1]. 

Can I take temazepam every night? 
Only for a short time. Continuous use for longer than 4 weeks is not recommended[1]. 

Does temazepam help with anxiety? 
It may be used short-term to calm anxiety before surgery but is not a first-line treatment for ongoing anxiety[1]. 

Is temazepam the same as diazepam? 
No. They are both benzodiazepines but differ in how quickly they act and how long their effects last[1]. 

Can I take temazepam abroad? 
Check with the embassy of the nation if you can take your medicine abroad as some countries have different rules for temazepam[1]. 

For the official NHS guide to temazepam, visit their website.