Generic

Flurazepam

Indications

Insomnia is defined as trouble falling asleep, numerous nocturnal awakenings, or early morning awakenings. Flurazepam is used to treat these disorders. Insomnia or bad sleeping patterns on a regular basis In medical circumstances that necessitate restorative sleep, whether acute or chronic.

Pharmacology

The hypnotic flurazepam, a benzodiazepine derivative, does not appear to reduce dream duration as assessed by fast eye movements (REM). It also reduces sleep latency and the amount of awakenings, resulting in an increase in total sleep time. Flurazepam binds to a GABA-A receptor allosteric site. Binding enhances GABA’s effect on GABA-A receptors by inducing chloride inflow and hyperpolarization by activating the chloride channel inside the receptor.

Dosage & Administration

Adult: Usual dosage is 30 mg at bedtime. In some patients, 15 mg may sufficient.

Elderly or debilitated: 15 mg is usually sufficient for a therapeutic response.

Children: Not recommended.In hepatic and renal impairment: Dosage may need to be reduced in patients with impaired hepatic or renal function.

Interaction

Other CNS depressants, such as alcohol, barbiturates, sedative antidepressants, antihistamines, and antipsychotic medications, are potentiated by flurazepam. Cimetidine extends the half-life of the active metabolite desalkyl flurazepam, which is already rather long. Antacids may cause benzodiazepines to be absorbed more slowly.

Contraindications

Patients who have a known hypersensitivity to benzodiazepines or any of the capsule’s other components.

Side Effect

Dizziness, sleepiness, light-headedness, staggering, and ataxia have all been reported, especially in the aged and disabled. There have been reports of severe drowsiness, lethargy, disorientation, and coma.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Flurazepam is contraindicated in pregnant women, according to pregnancy category C. It should be avoided by lactating moms.

Precautions & Warnings

Because the danger of developing oversedation, dizziness, disorientation, or ataxia increases significantly with higher dosages in elderly and disabled individuals, it is suggested that the dosage be limited to 15 mg in these patients. For severely depressed individuals or those with any indication of latent depression, standard precautions should be taken, including the understanding that suicidal inclinations may exist and that preventive measures may be required. In individuals with chronic pulmonary insufficiency, the standard precautions should be followed.

Therapeutic Class

Benzodiazepine hypnotics

Storage Conditions

Capsules should be kept dry and at a temperature of 20°-25°C.

Pharmaceutical Name

General Pharmaceuticals Ltd.