Flurazepam (HCl)

Flurazepam (HCl) is a 1,4-benzodiazipine with long duration of action. A substituent in the 7th position such as halogen or a nitro group is required for its sedative- hypnotic activity. Benzodiazepines are the most widely used anxiolytic drugs. The benzodiazepines are more effective and safer. They have largely replaced barbiturates and meprobamate in the treatment of anxiety.

Flurazepam (HCl) is primarily indicated in conditions like Hypnotic, Insomnia, Nausea, vertigo, labyrinthine disorders, NSAID-associated gastric and duodenal ulcers and duodenal erosions.

Flurazepam (HCl) is contraindicated in conditions like Myasthenia gravis, Severe Respiratory depression, Acute pulmonary insufficiency, Sleep apnea syndrome, Acute alcohol intoxication, Narrow angle glaucoma, Depressed neurosis, Psychotic reactions, Lactation

The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Flurazepam (HCl), which give rise to further complications include Aggression, Anxiety. Flurazepam (HCl) produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Anaphylactoid reactions, which are responsible for the discontinuation of Flurazepam (HCl) therapy. The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Flurazepam (HCl) include Drowsiness, Ataxia, Dysarthria. The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Flurazepam (HCl) are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Drowsiness, Nausea, Constipation, Blurred vision, Vertigo, Hypotension, Light headedness, Slurred speech, Respiratory depression, Diminished libido, Feeling of hangover, Chest pain, Myalgia, Palpitations, Elevations of AST, ALT, Bilirubin.

Patient should observe caution while driving or performing other task requiring alertness because it may produce dizziness. It should be used with caution in patients with respiratory disease, muscle weakness, history of drug or alcohol abuse, marked personality disorder; avoid regular use during pregnancy (risk of neonatal withdrawal symptoms); use only if clear indication such as seizure control (high doses during late pregnancy or labor may cause neonatal hypothermia, hypotonia and respiratory depression); breast-feeding (present in milk, avoid if possible); reduce dose in elderly and debilitated, and in hepatic (avoid if severe) and renal impairment (start with small doses if severe); avoid prolong use (abrupt withdrawal thereafter); porphyria. It should not be used alone to treat depression (or anxiety associated with depression) or psychosis.

Drug should not be given to Pediatrics, Pregnant Mothers, Geriatrics, and Neonates. If prescribing authority justifies the benefits of the drug against the possible damages he/she should reevaluate them and consult the reference material and previous studies.

0.214 to 0.428 mg/kg (0.32 (0.321)) 24 hourly PO — At Bed Time

( ) — Not recommended in this age group

( ) — Not recommended in this age group

Flurazepam (HCl) is known to interact with other drugs, the details of drug interactions is as follows:DrugDetailsSeverityOnsetManagementAlcoholAmprenavirIncreased risk of prolonged sedation and respiratory depression when Amprenavir given with Flurazepam.CisaprideIprindoleTheoretical potential for FLURAZEPAM increasing the SEDATIVE effect of IPRINDOLE. ModerateMay need to avoid combination.Lofepramine (HCl)Theoretical potential for FLURAZEPAM increasing the SEDATIVE effect of LOFEPRAMINE. ModerateMay need to avoid combinationVORICONAZOLEVoriconazole may increase the serum concentration of flurazepam by decreasing its metabolism. Monitor for flurazepam toxicity if voriconazole is initiated or dose increased. These interactions are sometimes beneficial and sometimes may pose threats to life. Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Caps Store Below 40°C. Protect from Sunlight and Heat.