Nitrazepam

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

Nitrazepam shortens the time required to fall asleep and lengthens the duration of this 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

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

Indications

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

Dosage

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.

Side Effects

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

See Diazepam#Interactions.

Contraindications

See Diazepam#Contraindications.

Overdose

See Diazepam#Overdose.

Legal Status

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

• Inchem - Nitrazepam

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