WARNING

Taking Dalmane (flurazepam) carries certain risks, as with any medication. Some of the risks associated with Dalmane include:

• Addiction and Dependence: Dalmane belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines, which have the potential for addiction and dependence, especially with long-term use or high doses.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Abruptly stopping Dalmane after prolonged use can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, insomnia, tremors, sweating, and seizures. Tapering off the medication under medical supervision is necessary to minimize withdrawal effects.
• Tolerance: With continued use, the effectiveness of Dalmane may decrease over time, leading to the need for higher doses to achieve the desired effect.
• Cognitive Impairment: Dalmane can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination, which can affect cognitive function and increase the risk of accidents, falls, and other injuries.
• Respiratory Depression: In rare cases, Dalmane can suppress breathing, especially when taken in high doses or in combination with other central nervous system depressants such as alcohol or opioids. This can be life-threatening, particularly in individuals with respiratory disorders.
• Memory and Cognitive Side Effects: Long-term use of Dalmane has been associated with memory impairment and cognitive decline, particularly in older adults.
• Paradoxical Reactions: Some individuals may experience paradoxical reactions to Dalmane, characterized by increased agitation, aggression, or hyperactivity instead of sedation.
• Drug Interactions: Dalmane can interact with other medications, including alcohol and certain antidepressants, antipsychotics, and muscle relaxants, leading to enhanced sedative effects or other adverse reactions.

It’s essential to use Dalmane only as prescribed by a healthcare professional and to follow their instructions closely. Discuss any concerns or questions about the risks and benefits of Dalmane with your doctor before starting or discontinuing the medication.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Dalmane is a brand name for the medication flurazepam, which belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. It is primarily prescribed for the short-term treatment of insomnia, helping individuals fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

How should this medicine be used?

Dalmane (flurazepam) is typically prescribed for the short-term treatment of insomnia, usually taken just before bedtime. Here’s a general guideline on how Dalmane should be used:

• Follow Doctor’s Instructions: Always follow your doctor’s instructions precisely regarding dosage and frequency of use. Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate dosage based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other factors.
• Take Orally: Dalmane is taken orally, usually as a capsule. Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the capsule, as this can increase the risk of side effects and may affect its effectiveness.
• Timing: Take Dalmane just before bedtime. This helps in falling asleep faster and staying asleep longer. Do not take it earlier than recommended, as it may cause drowsiness during daytime activities.
• Avoid Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Dalmane, as it can increase the risk of severe drowsiness and other side effects.
• Short-Term Use: Dalmane is typically prescribed for short-term use (usually 7 to 10 days). Prolonged use can lead to dependence, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms when stopping the medication.
• Do Not Suddenly Stop: Do not suddenly stop taking Dalmane without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor may need to gradually decrease your dosage to safely discontinue the medication.
• Store Properly: Store Dalmane at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.
• Monitoring: Your doctor may periodically monitor your response to Dalmane and adjust your dosage if necessary. Report any side effects or concerns to your healthcare provider promptly.

Always remember that this is a general guideline, and specific instructions may vary based on individual circumstances. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Dalmane, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Other uses for this medicine

While Dalmane (flurazepam) is primarily prescribed for the treatment of insomnia, it may sometimes be used off-label for other purposes. Off-label use means the medication is prescribed for a condition or purpose not approved by regulatory authorities, such as the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) in the United States. Off-label uses for Dalmane may include the management of anxiety or muscle spasms, although these uses are less common and should be discussed thoroughly with a healthcare provider.

What special precautions should I follow?

When taking Dalmane, there are several special precautions to keep in mind:

• Medical History: Before taking Dalmane, inform your doctor about any medical conditions you have, especially if you have a history of substance abuse, depression, breathing problems (such as sleep apnea or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), liver disease, kidney disease, or a personal or family history of addiction to drugs or alcohol.
• Allergies: Tell your doctor if you are allergic to flurazepam or any other benzodiazepines, as Dalmane may contain inactive ingredients that could cause allergic reactions or other problems.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of using Dalmane with your doctor. Benzodiazepines like Dalmane may cause harm to the unborn baby when taken during pregnancy. Similarly, it is not recommended to use Dalmane while breastfeeding, as the medication can pass into breast milk and may harm the nursing infant.
• Elderly Population: Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of Dalmane, such as drowsiness, dizziness, and confusion. Lower doses may be prescribed for elderly individuals to reduce the risk of falls and other adverse effects.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with Dalmane, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or reducing its effectiveness. Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Dalmane, as it can increase the sedative effects of the medication.
• Tolerance, Dependence, and Withdrawal: Like other benzodiazepines, Dalmane has the potential for tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal symptoms if used for an extended period or in high doses. Do not suddenly stop taking Dalmane without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, agitation, insomnia, and seizures. Your doctor may need to gradually taper your dosage to safely discontinue the medication.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Dalmane may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination, which can affect your ability to drive or operate machinery safely. Avoid engaging in activities that require mental alertness until you know how Dalmane affects you.
• Storage: Store Dalmane at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and discuss any concerns or questions you have about using Dalmane with your healthcare provider.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions for Dalmane. However, it’s essential to avoid consuming alcohol while taking Dalmane, as it can increase the sedative effects of the medication and may lead to dangerous side effects.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Dalmane at your usual bedtime, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Dalmane (flurazepam) can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Dalmane may include:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Constipation
• Blurred vision
• Changes in appetite
• Muscle weakness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Memory problems
• Impaired coordination

These side effects are usually mild and may diminish as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if any of these side effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly.

In some cases, Dalmane may cause more serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. These can include:

• Mood changes (e.g., agitation, confusion, depression)
• Hallucinations
• Unusual behavior
• Slurred speech
• Trouble breathing or swallowing
• Fainting
• Severe drowsiness or difficulty waking up
• Allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching, swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, severe dizziness, trouble breathing)

Seek medical help if you experience any of these severe side effects while taking Dalmane.

It’s important to note that this list may not include all possible side effects of Dalmane. If you have concerns about side effects or experience any unusual symptoms while taking Dalmane, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further evaluation and advice.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Dalmane:

• Store Dalmane at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not flush Dalmane down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this medication when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details on how to safely dispose of Dalmane.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose of Dalmane, seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 immediately. Overdose symptoms may include extreme drowsiness, confusion, loss of consciousness, shallow breathing, weak pulse, and coma.

What other information should I know?

• Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Dalmane, as it can increase the sedative effects and may lead to dangerous side effects.
• Dalmane may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require mental alertness until you know how Dalmane affects you.
• Inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements, as they may interact with Dalmane.
• Do not suddenly stop taking Dalmane without consulting your doctor, as it may cause withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor may need to gradually taper your dosage to safely discontinue the medication.
• Keep all appointments with your doctor and laboratory while taking Dalmane. Your doctor may periodically monitor your response to the medication and adjust your dosage if necessary.
• If you have any questions or concerns about Dalmane, including its use, dosage, side effects, or interactions, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and read the medication guide provided with Dalmane for complete information about the drug’s uses, precautions, and potential side effects.