Products
Flurazepam is commercially available in tablet form (Dalmadorm). It has been approved in many countries since 1972.
Structure and properties
Flurazepam (C21H23ClFN3O, Mr = 387.9 g/mol) is a 1,4-benzodiazepine. It is present in drugs as flurazepam hydrochloride, a white crystalline powder that is very soluble in water.
Effects
Flurazepam (ATC N05CD01) has sleep-inducing and sedative properties. The effects are due to binding to the GABAA receptor and are attributed to the formation of active metabolites, including the major metabolite -desalkylflurazepam. -Desalkylflurazepam has a long half-life of 40 to 100 hours.
Indications
For short-term treatment of sleep disorders of clinically relevant severity.
Dosage
According to the drug label. Tablets are usually taken once daily at bedtime. Benzodiazepines can be addictive and should be used only for short periods.
Abuse
Like other benzodiazepines, flurazepam can be abused as a depressant narcotic.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Severe respiratory failure
- Sleep apnea syndrome
- Myasthenia gravis
- Dependence on medication, drugs or alcohol
- Alcohol intoxication
- Severe hepatic insufficiency
- Ataxias
For complete precautions, see the drug label.
Interactions
Central depressant drugs and alcohol may potentiate the effects and adverse effects. Interactions are also possible with agents that interact with the CYP450 system.
Adverse effects
Possible adverse effects include drowsiness (including morning), confusion, ataxia, muscle weakness, paradoxical excitation, drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, bitter taste sensation, and elevated liver enzymes. Benzodiazepines can cause dependence and lead to withdrawal symptoms.