What it's used for
- Short-term treatment of insomnia
Read about: Insomnia
How it works: Enhances GABA at GABA-A receptors.
Common side effects
- Next-day drowsiness
- Memory problems
- Dependence
Tapering considerations
- Rebound insomnia is common; liquid or a diazepam switch can help.
For prescribers & facilitators
- Intended for short-term use (2–4 weeks).
Sources
- 01Benzodiazepines: How They Work and How to Withdraw (The Ashton Manual)
Prof. C. Heather Ashton, Newcastle University, 2002
- 02FDA requires Boxed Warning updated for benzodiazepines
U.S. Food & Drug Administration, 2020
- 03Medicines associated with dependence or withdrawal symptoms (NG215)
NICE Guideline, 2022
- 04The Maudsley Deprescribing Guidelines
Horowitz & Taylor, Wiley-Blackwell, 2024