Flurazepam

From WikiMD's Wellnesspedia

Information about Flurazepam[edit source]

Flurazepam is an orally available benzodiazepine used for therapy of insomnia


Liver safety of Flurazepam[edit source]

As with most benzodiazepines, flurazepam therapy has not been associated with serum aminotransferase or alkaline phosphatase elevations; clinically apparent liver injury from flurazepam has been reported, but is very rare.

Mechanism of action of Flurazepam[edit source]

Flurazepam (flur az' e pam) is a benzodiazepine used as a sleeping aid in the therapy of insomnia.  The sedating and soporific activity of the benzodiazepines is mediated by their ability to enhance gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) mediated inhibition of synaptic transmission through binding to the GABA-A receptor. 

FDA approval information for Flurazepam[edit source]

Flurazepam was approved in the United States in 1970 for the short term management of insomnia.  For many years flurazepam was one of the most prescribed medications for sleep.  Currently, it is less commonly used, having been replaced by benzodiazepines and benzodiazepine analogues with shorter half-life and better tolerance.  Flurazepam is available in multiple generic forms and formerly under the brand name of Dalmane in capsules of 15 and 30 mg.  The recommended dose for adults is 15 to 30 mg shortly before bedtime.  Chronic use is often followed by tolerance and decrease in effectiveness. 

Side effects of Flurazepam[edit source]

The most common side effects of flurazepam are dose related and include daytime drowsiness, lethargy, and dizziness.  Flurazepam and other benzodiazepines are classified as schedule IV controlled substances, indicating that they are capable of causing dependence, tolerance and abuse.

Benzodiazipines[edit source]

Flurazepam Resources

Find a healthcare provider anywhere in the world quickly and easily!

Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD