Temazepam: What Should I Discuss With My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Temazepam

Content provided by Cerner Multum, Inc.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking temazepam?

Some people using this medicine have engaged in activity such as driving, eating, or making phone calls and later having no memory of the activity. If this happens to you, stop taking temazepam and talk with your doctor about another treatment for your sleep disorder.

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to temazepam or to other benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clorazepate (Tranxene), diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), or triazolam (Halcion).

Before taking temazepam, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:

• asthma, emphysema, bronchitis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), or other breathing problems;
• glaucoma;
• kidney or liver disease;
• myasthenia gravis;
• a history of depression or suicidal thoughts or behavior; or
• a history of drug or alcohol addiction.

If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take temazepam.

Temazepam can cause birth defects in an unborn baby. It may also cause addiction or withdrawal symptoms in a newborn if the mother takes temazepam late in pregnancy. Do not use temazepam if you are pregnant. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant during treatment. Use an effective form of birth control while you are using this medication.

Temazepam may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

The sedative effects of temazepam may last longer in older adults. Accidental falls are common in elderly patients who take benzodiazepines. Use caution to avoid falling or accidental injury while you are taking temazepam.

Do not give this medication to anyone under 18 years old.

Last updated:	July 23, 2008