Flurazepam belongs to the class of medications called benzodiazepines. It is used for the short-term treatment of sleep problems associated with difficulty falling asleep, waking up frequently during the night, or early awakenings.

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.

The recommended adult dose of flurazepam ranges from 15 mg to 30 mg taken before bedtime. The recommended dose for seniors is 15 mg.

Do not take this medication for longer periods of time than your doctor recommends. If taken on a regular basis for extended periods of time, this medication may become habit forming (i.e., causing mental or physical dependence). If your symptoms persist or worsen after 7 to 10 days of treatment, see your doctor as soon as possible, as you may have another condition that requires medical attention.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of the reach of children.

Flurazepam should not be taken by anyone who:

• is allergic to flurazepam or any other benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam, lorazepam, clonazepam), or any of the ingredients of the medication
• is pregnant

A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. A side effect may be mild or severe, temporary or permanent, but does not occur in everyone. The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away over time. If you develop any of these side effects (or any other side effects not listed here) or they change in intensity, speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice on managing them and on the risks and benefits of the medication.

• abdominal or stomach cramps or pain
• blurred vision or other changes in vision
• clumsiness or unsteadiness
• constipation
• diarrhea
• dizziness or lightheadedness
• drowsiness
• dryness of mouth or increased thirst
• forgetfulness
• heartburn
• headache
• nausea or vomiting
• unusual tiredness or weakness

Before you begin taking a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should take this medication.

Allergic reactions: In rare cases, some people may develop an allergic reaction to this medication. Signs of an allergic reaction include a severe rash; swelling of the face, lips tongue, or throat; or difficulty breathing. If these occur, get emergency medical care.

Dependence and withdrawal: Physical dependence (a need to take regular doses to prevent physical symptoms) has been associated with benzodiazepines such as flurazepam. Severe withdrawal symptoms may occur if the dose is significantly reduced or suddenly discontinued. Symptoms can include:

• abdominal cramps
• agitation
• confusion
• diarrhea
• extreme anxiety
• headache
• irritability
• memory impairment
• muscle pain and cramps
• nervousness
• restlessness
• seizures
• sleep problems
• sweating
• tension
• tremors
• vomiting

Reducing the dose gradually under medical supervision can help prevent or decrease these withdrawal symptoms.

Drowsiness/reduced alertness: Flurazepam may impair your ability to perform certain tasks such as driving or operation machinery. Effects of the medication may remain during the morning hours. Alcohol can make the drowsiness or confusion caused by this medication worse. People taking flurazepam should not engage in activities that require complete mental alertness until they know they can perform these tasks safely.

Medical conditions: People who have depression, a history of substance use problems, kidney problems, liver problems, or chronic breathing problems should discuss with their doctor how this medication may affect their medical condition, how their medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Performing activities while not fully awake: People using flurazepam may perform activities such as driving, preparing and eating food, and making phone calls while not fully awake that they do not remember. This may be more likely to occur if you use alcohol or other sedative medications. If you discover this has happened to you, contact your doctor immediately.

Pregnancy: The use of flurazepam during pregnancy is not recommended. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately.

Breast-feeding: This medication passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking flurazepam, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.

Children: The safety and effectiveness of flurazepam have not been established for adolescents and children younger than 15 years of age.

Seniors: Seniors may be more sensitive to the effects of this medication and have an increased risk of side effects such as dizziness, confusion, accidents, and falls. Doses greater than 15 mg are not recommended for seniors.