Flurazepam Hcl (flurazepam HCl)

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Last reviewed · Source: First Databank (FDB) drug data

Overview

Flurazepam hydrochloride is a benzodiazepine.

Flurazepam shares the actions of other benzodiazepines and is used as a hypnotic agent in the short-term treatment of insomnia for periods up to 4 weeks in duration. Prolonged use of hypnotics is usually not indicated and should be undertaken only upon further evaluation of the patient. The possibility that insomnia may be a symptom of an underlying condition for which there may be a more specific treatment should be considered.

Generic name: flurazepam HCl
Pronunciation: (flur-AZ-e-pam)

Reference product & biosimilars

No reference, biosimilar or interchangeable associated with this drug.

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Indications

The following indications are listed for Flurazepam Hcl:

  • Insomnia

Also known as: Agrypnia, Ahypnia.

Dosing

Dosage of flurazepam hydrochloride must be individualized, and the smallest effective dosage should be used (especially in geriatric or debilitated patients or in those with liver disease or low serum albumin). Prolonged administration of flurazepam should be avoided.

The usual adult dose of flurazepam hydrochloride is 30 mg; however, 15 mg may be adequate in some patients. In geriatric or debilitated patients, an initial dose of 15 mg should be used. In patients who have received prolonged (e.g., for several months) flurazepam hydrochloride therapy, abrupt discontinuance of the drug should be avoided since manifestations of withdrawal can be precipitated; if the drug is to be discontinued in such patients, it is recommended that dosage be gradually tapered.

Drug interactions

There is no enhanced messaging for this drug.

Contraindications

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Adverse reactions

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Precautions

A boxed warning has been included in the prescribing information for all benzodiazepines describing the risks of abuse, misuse, addiction, physical dependence, and withdrawal reactions associated with all drugs in this class. Abuse and misuse can result in overdose or death, especially when benzodiazepines are combined with other medicines, such as opioid pain relievers, alcohol, or illicit drugs. Frequent follow-up with patients receiving benzodiazepines is important. Reassess patients regularly to manage their medical conditions and any withdrawal symptoms. Clinicians should assess a patient's risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction. Standardized screening tools are available (https://nida.nih.gov/nidamed-medical-health-professionals/screening-tools- resources/chart-screening-tools). To reduce the risk of acute withdrawal reactions, use a gradual dose taper when reducing the dosage or discontinuing benzodiazepines. Take precautions when benzodiazepines are used in combination with opioid medications.

Flurazepam shares the toxic potentials of the benzodiazepines, and the usual precautions of benzodiazepine administration should be observed. (See Cautions in the Benzodiazepines General Statement 28:24.08.)

ICD codes

No ICD codes are available for this drug.

Formulary status

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Last reviewed · Source: First Databank (FDB) drug data