Nitrazepam (marketed under the trade names Alodorm®, Mogadon®, Nitredon®, Nilandron®) is a powerful hypnotic drug, which is a benzodiazepine derivative. It possesses powerful anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, amnestic, sedative and skeletal muscle relaxant properties.

Nitrazepam shortens the time required to fall asleep and lengthens the duration of sleep. Typically, it may work within an hour and allow the individual to maintain sleep for 4 to 6 hours. It is no longer available in the United States.

Pharmacology

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The pharmacological action of nitrazepam is thought to be the result of its facilitating the action of gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), an inhibitor neurotransmitter.

Indications

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Nitrazepam is used to treat epilepsy (myoclonic seizures) and insomnia.

Dosage

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When used for treatment of insomnia, the usual dose for adults is 2.5mg to 10mg, taken at bedtime.

When used for treatment of myoclonic seizures, the dose is based on body weight. The dose for children (30kg or less) is anywhere from 0.3mg/kg to 1mg/kg, daily in three divided doses.

Nitrazepam is available in 5mg and 10mg tablets. In Australia it is only available in 5mg tablets.

Side effects

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Side effects can include:

• Somnolence
• Impaired motor function
  • Impaired coordination
  • Impaired balance
  • Dizziness
• Amnesia
• Confusion
• Lack of concentration
• Headache, "hangover" feeling in the morning.

Interactions

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See Diazepam#Interactions.

Contraindications

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See Diazepam#Contraindications.

Overdose

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See Diazepam#Overdose.

Legal Status

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In the United States, nitrazepam is a Schedule IV drug available by prescription only. Internationally, nitrazepam is a Schedule IV drug under the Convention on Psychotropic Substances^*.

External links

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• Inchem - Nitrazepam

Anticonvulsants | Anxiolytics | Benzodiazepines | Hypnotics | Muscle relaxants | Schedule IV controlled substances | Sedatives

Nitrazepam | Nitrazepam | Нитразепам | Nitrazepam