Nitrazepam

Filed under: Sleeping Tablets

Displayed: Nitrazepam Roche 5mg (not us)

Nitrazepam (sleeping drug) belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepine this group of drugs is used to relieve tension and nervousness. They help to relax muscles and promote sleep, especially when taken before bedtime. It is known that this medication can still effect the individual the next day. When taken every night its effects can gradually build up making for day time sedation, which may lead to dependance. Because of this it is usually used as a short term treatment over one or two weeks. Nitrazepam is used in the short term treatment of insomnia and has long lasting effects compared to other drugs in this group. It has more chance to cause light headedness or drowsiness the following day. As with other drugs in this group it may become habit forming, if taken over a long span of time. Stopping nitrazepam after prolonged use gives rebound insomnia and anxiety. withdrawal syndrome may cause confusion, toxic psychosis and convulsions. When affected these particular individuals will need a tappering off of the drug over a period of time, some weeks or even many months may be required. Nitrazepam effect may also weaken over a period of time.

Detailed Information

Quick Guide

• Benzodiazepine Sleeping drug with danger of overdose – MEDIUM
• Dependency is said to be – HIGH
• Prescription only drug – YES
• Available as generic – YES
• Alcohol Avoidance – YES
• Alcohol will add to the sedative properties of this medication

Side Effects

You may if on this medication suffer one or more of these side effects, in the initial stages. However, you may find you do not suffer any at all, as it does not follow that being on this medication will cause unwanted adverse effects.

Common: Confusion, Daytime Drowsiness, Dizziness, Forgetful, Unsteadiness
Rare: Blurred Vision, Headaches, Rash

The side effects listed here are the most common and rare problems reported by patients using this medication It does not include all of the side effects reported by the drug’s manufacturer. If common side effects persist you need to inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you suffer any of the rare or some other side effects not listed here. For total peace of mind, seek information from your doctor or chemist.

Prolonged Use

Regular use of this drug may also diminish its effect as the body adapts. It could also be habit-forming and may lead to dependance. Side effects normally diminish after a few days of treatment.

Driving, Hazardous Work & Alcohol

It is concidered in advisable to drive if you take this medication because the effects of the tablet can be felt into the next day, it slows reaction time, reduces alertness, causes drowsiness and impairs concentration. Alcohol will only add to these effects by increasing the sedative effects of nitrazepam.

Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding

This drug is known to affect the baby in the womb. The baby could be born with dependance and have withdrawal symptoms. You should avoid this medication as the drug passes into the breast milk.

Nitrazepam is classified as a pregnancy Category D medicine by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).Pregnancy Category D… Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Tell Your Doctor

You should tell your doctor if you have a current health problem. For example: heart disease, kidney problems, if you are pregnant or you intend to become pregnant, or if you think you may be at risk from drug treatment for any other reason. Some types of medication can cause serious adverse effects when taken side by side so it is important to tell your doctor of any other medication you are already taking. This should also include any over-the-counter medication. For example: Painkillers, cold remedies, herbal and complimentary / alternative medication.

Over 60’s & Children

A reduced dose may need to be given to the over sixties as it is likely they may suffer adverse effects from this drug. Nitrazepam would not be recommended for infants or children.

Overdose

An unintentional dose is unlikely to cause problems. However, large overdoses may cause unusual drowsiness. Notify your doctor.

Other Medication Reactions

All drugs that have a sedative effect on the nervous system will more likely than not increase the sedative properties of this drug. Nitrazepam may increase the toxicity and side effects of antiepileptic drugs. The levels and the toxicity of nitrazepam will be increased by macrolide, antibacterials, imidazole and triazole antifungals. Rifampicin will reduce the effects of nitrazepam.

Missed A Dose

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue the regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Reducing or Stopping Medication

If you have been taking the drug for less than 2 weeks continuously. It can be stopped as soon as you feel you are no-longer in need. However, do not stop abruptly if you have been taking it longer consult your doctor first he may supervise a gradual reduction if he thinks there is need for this action. Other wise you could suffer withdrawal symptoms.

Effect Of Medication

The effects from this drug can be felt between 30 to 60 minutes. It has a lasting effect for 24 hours, or more.

Storage and Safety

Keep medicine in its original container, in a cool dry place, away from the reach of children. Never take medication that has past the expiry date shown on the box or container. Return all un-used or old medicines to your pharmacist. Do not discard old or unwanted medication into your trash, sink or toilet.

If this medication has been prescribed for you never allow anyone else to use it, even if you know or they feel their symptom are similar to your own.

Do not leave your doctors surgery until you have a clear understanding of what the drug your doctor has prescribed for you does, and why you have been prescribed it. It is common for people who do not understand the reason behind there treatment to take their medication correctly.