Restoril (temazepam) is an FDA-approved prescription medication designed to address insomnia in adults. Its sedative properties can enhance sleep latency and quality, reducing the time it takes to fall asleep and extending the duration of rest. The absence of sleep can disrupt daily life, resulting in fatigue, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and impaired decision-making. Fortunately, there are medications available to assist individuals in achieving the restful sleep they require.

Like any medication, Restoril comes with both advantages and risks, which should be discussed with your healthcare provider before use to determine its suitability for you.
This blog aims to provide insights into Restoril, including its benefits, potential risks, and associated side effects.

What Is Restoril?

Restoril (temazepam) belongs to the benzodiazepine class of drugs and is prescribed for adults experiencing sleep difficulties or insomnia. According to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), benzodiazepines are depressants that slow down the central nervous system, inducing a sense of calmness and relaxation, reducing anxiety and muscle tension, and minimizing seizures.

Temazepam

The Generic Name for Restoril is Temazepam,  which is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance and is a subtype of benzodiazepines often prescribed as a sedative.

In a 2017 study, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) investigated widely-used medications for treating chronic insomnia in adults, recommending temazepam as one of the drugs clinicians can use to manage sleep onset insomnia and sleep maintenance insomnia compared to no treatment.

Restoril for Insomnia

Sleep-onset insomnia, characterized by difficulty falling asleep at the beginning of the night or when preparing for bed, is often described as tossing and turning in an attempt to initiate sleep. Conversely, sleep maintenance insomnia, also known as middle-of-the-night (MOTN) or middle insomnia, involves difficulty in remaining asleep throughout the night, often leading to terminal insomnia, frequent awakenings, and early morning disturbances.

Restoril and other temazepam drugs are central nervous system depressants that operate by influencing the brain’s neurochemical messengers, slowing their activity and inducing drowsiness. The calming and relaxing effects of the drug can facilitate faster sleep onset, longer periods of uninterrupted sleep, a restorative night’s rest, and a refreshed awakening.

Restoril Can Lead to Addiction

As Schedule IV-classified drugs, temazepam products carry the potential for drug abuse and pose a risk of dependence, particularly for individuals with a history of addiction.
It is imperative to use it strictly as prescribed to avoid the risk of addiction.

Restoril Capsule Dosage Strengths

Restoril is available in capsule form in various dosage strengths, including:

  • Restoril 7.5 mg: This is the recommended standard dosage for most insomnia patients, especially for elderly or debilitated individuals. Treatment typically commences at 7.5 mg until individual responses are assessed. It is identifiable by its blue cap imprinted with “RESTORIL 7.5 mg” twice and a pink body imprinted with “FOR SLEEP,” an “M” in a box, and the registered trademark symbol.
  • Restoril 15 mg: The 15 mg dosage features a maroon cap imprinted with “RESTORIL 15 mg” twice, with a pink body marked with “FOR SLEEP,” an “M” in a box, and the registered trademark symbol.
  • Restoril 22.5 mg: The entire Restoril 22.5 mg capsule is blue, with two “RESTORIL 22.5 mg” stamps, a “FOR SLEEP,” an “M” in a box, and the registered trademark symbol.
  • Restoril 30 mg: The 30 mg capsule boasts a maroon cap imprinted with “RESTORIL 30 mg” twice and a blue body with the “FOR SLEEP,” an “M” in a box, and the registered trademark symbol.

It is critical to adhere to your doctor’s or pharmacist’s instructions when taking Restoril and other temazepam products. Do not exceed the recommended dosage or use it in any manner other than prescribed, as this can increase the risk of side effects and addiction.

How Is Restoril Used?

Your doctor may prescribe Restoril based on your medical condition, symptoms, age, other medications in use, and additional factors. Ensure that you inform your doctor if you have the following medical conditions:

  • Pregnancy or plans to become pregnant
  • Kidney disease
  • Lung disease and other respiratory issues
  • Depression, anxiety, or any other mental health conditions
  • A history of alcohol or substance abuse or addiction

When taking, it is essential to follow your doctor’s prescription precisely as directed and carefully read the medication guide. You can takewith or without food, but it is best taken just before bedtime and at approximately the same time each night for optimal effectiveness.

The short-term treatment of insomnia with the drug typically spans 7 to 10 days. For those experiencing transient insomnia or short-term sleep difficulties, a 7.5 mg dosage is typically prescribed. For elderly or debilitated patients, healthcare providers may initiate treatment with a 7.5 mg dosage, adjusting it as necessary.

Your doctor may recommend dosages ranging from 7.5 mg to 30 mg, depending on your individual circumstances. It is crucial to adhere to your prescription precisely. If you believe you require a higher dosage, experience inadequate results, or if symptoms persist beyond 10 days, promptly inform your doctor before altering your dosage. Additionally, never share your Restoril prescription with others, even if they exhibit similar symptoms.

Ensuring seven to eight hours of sleep after taking Restoril is essential, as the medication induces drowsiness that can affect daytime activities. If you forget to take your dose at the recommended time, skip the missed dose and proceed with the next scheduled dosage. Never double the dosage to compensate for a missed one.

What Are the Side Effects of Restoril Use?

The use of Restoril may result in certain side effects, including:

Physical side effects:

  • Drowsiness
  • Fatigue
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Dry mouth
  • Stomach pain
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Blurred vision
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Changes in appetite or weight

Mental side effects:

  • Nervousness
  • Anxiety
  • Agitation
  • Aggression
  • Confusion
  • Mood swings
  • Behavioral changes
  • Memory loss
  • Hallucinations
  • Nightmares

It may also lead to allergic reactions, characterized by hives, rash, swelling, and breathing difficulties. In some instances, users may engage in activities while asleep, such as walking, driving, cooking, making phone calls, or participating in sexual activities, without any recollection upon waking.

If you experience an allergic reaction or any of the above symptoms, discontinue to use immediately and seek emergency medical assistance. These symptoms may indicate an overdose or severe side effects that could endanger your life.

How Addictive Is Restoril?

Restoril possesses sedative properties that can lead to habit formation and addiction. Individuals who misuse Restoril may develop tolerance, resulting in physical or psychological dependence and potential drug addiction, especially when taken in high doses or over an extended period.

Many individuals also experience rebound insomnia, characterized by the inability to sleep without Restoril. This condition may arise when they abruptly discontinue the drug or when their prescribed treatment ends, often resulting in increased drug usage.

If you develop tolerance, dependence, or addiction to Restoril, it is crucial to seek emergency medical attention to safely taper off temazepam intake.
Do not abruptly cease Restoril usage, as it can lead to life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.

What Are the Withdrawal Symptoms of Restoril Abuse?

The abrupt reduction in dosage, sudden discontinuation, or misuse and abuse of Restoril can trigger withdrawal symptoms that vary in intensity. The severity of these symptoms depends on factors such as the duration of use, dosage strength, overall health, and the presence of concurrent medical conditions. Withdrawal symptoms may persist for several days to weeks and encompass:

  • Intense cravings
  • Daytime anxiety
  • Persistent drowsiness
  • Insomnia
  • Tremors
  • Sweating
  • Fatigue
  • Abdominal cramps
  • Muscle pain or tension
  • Confusion
  • Headaches
  • Depression
  • Agitation
  • Irritability
  • Changes in appetite
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Respiratory depression
  • Panic attacks
  • Hallucinations
  • Paranoia
  • Seizures
  • Memory problems

Occasionally, individuals may experience unexplained behaviors while asleep, such as making phone calls, sleep driving, or engaging in other activities they cannot recall. At times, users may also experience falls or accidental injuries while sleepwalking.

In extreme cases, life-threatening withdrawal symptoms such as heart attacks, strokes, seizures, comas, and fatalities may occur.

If you are encountering any of these symptoms, seek immediate emergency medical attention for safe and effective management of Restoril withdrawal.

What Are Possible Restoril Drug Interactions?

Restoril can interact with other medications, over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and street drugs, leading to paradoxical reactions and severe side effects. Individuals with mental health issues and other medical conditions should exercise caution when using in combination with certain medications.

Some of the drugs that may interact with Restoril include:

Do not consume alcohol while taking Restoril, as it can result in severe and potentially life-threatening side effects.

What Are the Treatment Options for Restoril / Temazepam Addiction?

If you or someone you know is grappling with Restoril addiction, seeking immediate medical assistance is crucial. An appropriate treatment plan may include a combination of the following:

  • Medical detoxification
  • Inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation programs
  • Medication-assisted therapy (MAT)
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
  • Individual or group psychotherapy
  • Support groups
  • Aftercare services

The specific treatment plan for Restoril abuse and addiction varies from person to person.
However, with the right guidance and support, it is possible to regain control of your life and break free from drug abuse.

Benzodiazepine addiction treatment at Still Detox in Boca Raton, Florida

Restoril (temazepam) is a powerful sleep aid that, when misused and abused, can result in serious side effects.
If you or someone you know is grappling with Restoril addiction, Still Detox in Boca Raton, Florida is ready to provide support and assistance.
Our experienced medical professionals offer personalized treatment plans for safely detoxing from Restoril and other drugs.
Contact us today for more information on addiction treatment programs and how we can support your journey to recovery.