Major Research Findings

Temazepam is a benzodiazepine hypnotic used to treat insomnia. Numerous studies have shown that temazepam can improve sleep quality and reduce sleep onset latency. 2 However, like other benzodiazepine hypnotics, temazepam carries a risk of side effects.

Several studies have reported side effects of temazepam. For instance, a study in 7 found that temazepam is an effective drug for improving sleep at high altitude, but its efficacy compared to other drugs is unclear. A study in 18 found that temazepam has fewer side effects than other benzodiazepine hypnotics, especially fewer adverse effects on the central nervous system. On the other hand, a study in 25 reported that some insomniac patients who took temazepam experienced side effects such as agitation, sleepwalking, anger, and panic.

In addition, a study in 10 found that astronauts who took temazepam after spaceflight may experience aggravated orthostatic hypotension. This is thought to be because temazepam has blood pressure lowering effects.

Reasons for Side Effects

Side effects of temazepam are common side effects of benzodiazepine drugs and are thought to occur by acting on GABA receptors. GABA is a neurotransmitter in the brain that inhibits neuronal excitation. Benzodiazepines enhance the action of GABA by binding to GABA receptors, inhibiting neuronal excitation. This action promotes sleep, but it can also cause muscle relaxation and adverse effects on the central nervous system.

Common Side Effects

Drowsiness

Temazepam can cause drowsiness. This is because temazepam inhibits brain activity by acting on GABA receptors. 26

Dizziness

Temazepam can cause dizziness and lightheadedness. This is because temazepam relaxes muscles and disrupts balance. 10

Memory Impairment

Temazepam can cause memory impairment. This is because temazepam inhibits brain activity and reduces the ability to form memories. 18

Dependence

Temazepam can cause dependence. This is because temazepam acts on the pleasure center in the brain, leading to dependence.

Paradoxical Reactions

Taking temazepam can sometimes cause paradoxical reactions, such as excitement or agitation. 16

Withdrawal Symptoms

If you take temazepam continuously and suddenly stop taking it, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia, anxiety, tremors, and sweating. 18

Countermeasures for Side Effects

Drowsiness

Drowsiness is a particular concern if you are driving or operating machinery after taking temazepam. You should avoid driving or operating machinery if you experience severe drowsiness. The time of day you take temazepam is also important. Taking it before bedtime can prevent drowsiness during the day.

Dizziness

Dizziness is a concern when getting up after taking temazepam. Get up slowly or use a handrail to prevent falls.

Memory Impairment

Avoid taking temazepam before important meetings or appointments. Keeping a diary and making a note of important things can also help you to avoid forgetting important things.

Dependence

To prevent dependence, it is important to keep the duration of temazepam use as short as possible and follow your doctor's instructions. Do not stop taking the drug on your own.

Paradoxical Reactions

If you experience paradoxical reactions, consult your doctor and consider stopping the medication or switching to a different medication.

Withdrawal Symptoms

To avoid withdrawal symptoms, it is important to gradually reduce the dosage of temazepam under your doctor's care, rather than stopping the medication abruptly.

Comparison Between Studies

Common Points

Multiple studies have shown that temazepam improves sleep quality. It has also been confirmed that temazepam tends to have fewer side effects compared to other benzodiazepine hypnotics.

Differences

Studies on the side effects of temazepam show variations in the types and severity of reported side effects. This is thought to be due to differences in the age and health status of the study subjects, the dosage, and the duration of treatment. For example, a study in 25 reported that some insomniac patients who took temazepam experienced side effects such as agitation, sleepwalking, anger, and panic, but other studies have not reported such side effects.

Precautions for Application to Real Life

Temazepam is an effective drug for treating insomnia, but it is important to understand the risk of side effects. In particular, the elderly and those with impaired liver or kidney function are more susceptible to side effects. When taking temazepam, always consult with your doctor and follow their instructions. If you experience any abnormalities while taking temazepam, consult your doctor immediately.

Limitations of Current Research

Research on the side effects of temazepam is still insufficient. In particular, long-term side effects are still not fully understood. Also, because of variations in the age and health status of the study subjects, the dosage, and the duration of treatment, it is not possible to apply the research results directly to other patients.

Future Research Directions

Further research is needed on the long-term side effects of temazepam and the incidence of side effects in specific patient populations. Also, development of methods to reduce the side effects of temazepam and safer hypnotics is expected.

Conclusion

Temazepam is an effective drug for treating insomnia, but it is important to understand the risk of side effects. When taking temazepam, always consult with your doctor and follow their instructions.