Flurazepam Hydrochloride 30 mg Capsule, 30-count
🆔 Identity & classification
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🏷️ RxNorm drug class
This medicine belongs to the Benzodiazepine class.
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🏭 Manufacturer & labeler
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🩺 Clinical
Flurazepam is used to treat insomnia (difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep). Flurazepam is in a class of medications called benzodiazepines. It works by slowing activity in the brain to allow sleep.
Read the full MedlinePlus article ↗- Flurazepam is a prescription sleep medication used to treat insomnia — specifically trouble falling asleep, waking up a lot during the night, or waking too early and not being able...
- That's a real possibility, and it's one of the most important things to know about this medication. Flurazepam stays in your system for a long time — its active breakdown products...
- No — you really should avoid alcohol entirely while taking flurazepam. Alcohol adds to the sedating effects of this medication in a way that can be dangerous. Together, they can ca...
- Can I have a drink or two while taking this?
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Supplement & herbal interactions
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💊 What it looks like
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🧪 Inactive Ingredients / Excipients
Inactive ingredients, also called excipients, are components of the drug product other than the active ingredient. They may include fillers, dyes, coatings, preservatives, flavors, or other formulation ingredients.
💡 Tap an ingredient (hover on desktop) to see what it is and why it’s used.
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UNII 3K9958V90M
A liquid solvent derived from fermentation or chemical synthesis. In medicines, alcohol dissolves active ingredients, helps preserve the product, and improves how the body absorbs certain drugs.
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UNII 5138Q19F1X
Ammonia is a colorless gas made from nitrogen and hydrogen. It's used in medicines as a pH buffer to maintain the correct acidity level and help keep the product stable.
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UNII 3SY5LH9PMK
Anhydrous lactose is a milk sugar with no water content. It acts as a filler and binder in tablets and capsules, adding bulk and helping ingredients stick together.
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Butyl alcohol is a clear liquid organic solvent derived from petroleum or natural sources. In medicines, it helps dissolve active ingredients and serves as a solvent in liquid formulations and some topical products.
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FD&C Blue No. 1 is a synthetic blue dye approved for use in foods and medicines. It serves as a colorant to give the medication its distinctive appearance and help with product identification.
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UNII PN2ZH5LOQY
A synthetic red dye approved by the FDA for use in foods, medicines, and cosmetics. It serves as a colorant to make tablets, capsules, and liquids visually distinctive for product identification.
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UNII XM0M87F357
A dark iron oxide compound that gives medicines their black or dark color. It's used as a colorant in tablets and capsules to help identify the product and make it visually distinctive.
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UNII 2G86QN327L
Gelatin is a protein derived from animal collagen, commonly used in medicines as a gelling agent and capsule material. It helps create soft or hard capsule shells that hold and release medication, and can also thicken liquid formulations.
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UNII ND2M416302
Isopropyl alcohol is a clear liquid solvent derived from petroleum. In medicines, it dissolves active ingredients and other components, helps the product flow smoothly, and aids in sterilization during manufacturing.
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UNII 70097M6I30
Magnesium stearate is a salt made from magnesium and stearic acid, a fatty substance. It's used in tablets and capsules as a lubricant and glidant to help ingredients flow smoothly during manufacturing and prevent sticking.
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UNII 3OWL53L36A
A natural sugar alcohol derived from seaweed or synthesized in the lab. It's used as a filler to add bulk, a sweetener in sugar-free formulas, and a disintegrant to help tablets break apart in the stomach.
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UNII WZH3C48M4T
Potassium hydroxide is a strong alkaline chemical used in medicines to adjust and maintain the pH level of liquid formulations, helping keep the product stable and the active ingredients effective.
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UNII 6DC9Q167V3
Propylene glycol is a clear liquid derived from petroleum or vegetable sources. It acts as a solvent, humectant, and preservative in medicines, helping dissolve active ingredients and maintain product stability.
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UNII 46N107B71O
Shellac is a natural resin secreted by the lac beetle. It's used as a coating on tablets and capsules to control how quickly the medicine dissolves and to improve appearance and stability.
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UNII ETJ7Z6XBU4
Silicon dioxide is a naturally occurring mineral used as a glidant and anti-caking agent. It helps powder ingredients flow smoothly and prevents clumping during manufacturing and storage.
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UNII 7SEV7J4R1U
A powder made from a naturally occurring mineral. In medicines, talc works as a glidant and anti-caking agent, helping tablets and capsules flow smoothly during manufacturing and preventing clumping.
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UNII 15FIX9V2JP
Titanium dioxide is a bright white mineral powder commonly used as a colorant and opacifying agent. It makes pills and tablets white or lighter in color and helps make coatings non-transparent.
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UNII 059QF0KO0R
Water is a liquid solvent that dissolves and mixes ingredients together in liquid medicines, syrups, and injections. It helps distribute the active drug evenly throughout the product.
18 inactive ingredients listed in the exact product block matched to this NDC.
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ingredient classCode="IACT" elements from the exact product block matched by this NDC. Label-section narrative from DailyMed / the openFDA label index is shown separately when available.Inactive ingredient FAQ
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💲 Pricing
A drug doesn't have one price. Each row is a different public payment system, and none is what you'd pay at the counter — that depends on your insurance. The ⓘ on each row explains what it measures.
| Price system | Per each | Per package |
|---|---|---|
| Retail pharmacies payNADAC · weekly | Not in the retail survey — common for institutional, discontinued, or low-volume packs. | |
| Medicaid paysCMS SDUD · 12 mo | No recent Medicaid claims on file for this NDC — rare and low-volume NDCs are suppressed in the public data. | |
| Medicare drug plans payPart D · Q2 2026 | $15.18 | $455.28 / 30 capsules |
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🔁 Therapeutic equivalents
| Product | Labeler | Pack | NADAC/unit | TE | Status | Price vs. this |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flurazepam Hydrochloride 30 mgthis 62135-0737-30 | Chartwell | 30 capsules | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
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⏳ Availability & generic status
This product is an FDA-approved generic. Other versions of the same drug are listed under Therapeutic equivalents, least expensive first.
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📦 Packaging — all sizes for this product
| Package NDC | Description | Marketing start | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 62135-0737-30 You're viewing this | 30 CAPSULE in 1 BOTTLE (62135-737-30) | 2023-12-19 | Active |
| 62135-0737-90 | 90 CAPSULE in 1 BOTTLE (62135-737-90) | 2023-09-08 | Active |
You're viewing the smallest of 2 pack sizes for this product.
Pack size FAQ
What quantity is in NDC 62135-0737-30?
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🧭 About this NDC listing & data coverage
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| NDC identity (package / product / labeler codes) | ✓ Available |
| Labeler | ✓ Available |
| Product & package description | ✓ Available |
| Marketing category & status | ✓ Available |
| Active ingredient / dosage form / route | ✓ Available |
| FDA label (SPL via DailyMed) | ✓ Available |
| Package photos | ✓ Available |
| Inactive ingredients (structured) | ✓ Available |
| NADAC pharmacy acquisition price (CMS) | — Not published for this NDC CMS publishes NADAC only for NDCs reported in its retail-pharmacy survey. |
| Orange Book / therapeutic-equivalence data | ✓ Available |
| HCPCS J-code billing crosswalk | — Not published for this NDC Most self-administered / retail products have no J-code — that is normal. |
| Medicaid utilization (CMS SDUD) | — Not published for this NDC CMS reports utilization only for NDCs with Medicaid claims above its privacy threshold. |
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📄 Full prescribing information FDA SPL
🚨 Boxed Warning ▾
WARNING: RISKS FROM CONCOMITANT USE WITH OPIOIDS; ABUSE, MISUSE, AND ADDICTION; and DEPENDENCE AND WITHDRAWAL REACTIONS Concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required.
Follow patients for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) and Drug Interactions ( 7.1 ) ]. The use of benzodiazepines, including flurazepam hydrochloride capsules, exposes users to risks of abuse, misuse, and addiction, which can lead to overdose or death. Abuse and misuse of benzodiazepines commonly involve concomitant use of other medications, alcohol, and/or illicit substances, which is associated with an increased frequency of serious adverse outcomes.
Before prescribing flurazepam hydrochloride capsules, and throughout treatment, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ) ]. The continued use of benzodiazepines, including flurazepam hydrochloride capsules, may lead to clinically significant physical dependence. The risks of dependence and withdrawal increase with longer treatment duration and higher daily dose.
Abrupt discontinuation or rapid dosage reduction of flurazepam hydrochloride capsules after continued use may precipitate acute withdrawal reactions, which can be life-threatening. To reduce the risk of withdrawal reactions, use a gradual taper to discontinue flurazepam hydrochloride capsules or reduce the dosage [ see Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 ) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ) ]. WARNING: RISKS FROM CONCOMITANT USE WITH OPIOIDS; ABUSE, MISUSE, AND ADDICTION; and DEPENDENCE AND WITHDRAWAL REACTIONS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning.
Concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Reserve concomitant prescribing of these drugs in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. Limit dosages and durations to the minimum required.
Follow patients for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation ( 5.1 , 7.1 ). The use of benzodiazepines, including flurazepam hydrochloride capsules, exposes users to risks of abuse, misuse, and addiction, which can lead to overdose or death. Before prescribing flurazepam hydrochloride capsules and throughout treatment, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction ( 5.2 ).
Abrupt discontinuation or rapid dosage reduction of flurazepam hydrochloride capsules after continued use may precipitate acute withdrawal reactions, which can be life-threatening. To reduce the risk of withdrawal reactions, use a gradual taper to discontinue flurazepam hydrochloride capsules or reduce the dosage ( 2.3 , 5.3 ).
🎯 Indications and Usage ▾
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Flurazepam hydrochloride capsules are indicated for the treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulty in falling asleep, frequent nocturnal awakenings, and/or early morning awakenings [see Clinical Studies ( 14 ) ]. Since insomnia is often transient and intermittent, short-term use is usually sufficient. Prolonged use of hypnotics is usually not indicated and should only be undertaken concomitantly with appropriate evaluation of the patient.
Flurazepam, a gamma-aminobutyric (GABA A ) agonist, is indicated for the treatment of insomnia characterized by difficulty falling asleep, frequent nocturnal awakenings, and/or early morning awakenings. ( 1 )
⏱️ Dosage and Administration ▾
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Use the lowest dose effective for the patient. Recommended initial dose is 15 mg for women and 15 mg or 30 mg for men. ( 2.1 ) Elderly or debilitated patients: recommended dose is 15 mg. ( 2.2 )
2.1Dosage in Adults Use the lowest dose effective for the patient, as important adverse effects of flurazepam hydrochloride capsules are dose related. The recommended initial dose is 15 mg for women and either 15 mg or 30 mg for men. The 15 mg dose can be increased to 30 mg if necessary for efficacy. The recommended initial doses for women and men are different because flurazepam clearance is lower in women [see Pharmacokinetics ( 12.3 ) ].
2.2Dosage in Elderly or Debilitated Patients Elderly or debilitated patients may be especially sensitive to flurazepam. Since the risk of the development of oversedation, dizziness, confusion and/or ataxia increases substantially with larger doses in elderly or debilitated patients, it is recommended that in such patients the dosage be limited to 15 mg. Staggering and falling have also been reported, particularly in geriatric patients [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ) ].
2.3Discontinuation or Dosage Reduction of Flurazepam Hydrochloride Capsules To reduce the risk of withdrawal reactions, use a gradual taper to discontinue flurazepam hydrochloride capsules or reduce the dosage. If a patient develops withdrawal reactions, consider pausing the taper or increasing the dosage to the previous tapered dosage level. Subsequently decrease the dosage more slowly [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ) and Drug Abuse and Dependence ( 9.3 ) ].
💊 Dosage Forms and Strengths ▾
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Flurazepam Hydrochloride Capsules, USP are available containing either 15 mg or 30 mg of Flurazepam Hydrochloride, USP. Flurazepam Hydrochloride Capsules, USP 15 mg are Size #2 hard gelatin capsules, Blue opaque cap with white opaque body, imprinted with “ CE ” on the cap and “ 28 ” on the body with black ink, filled with white to off-white powder. Flurazepam Hydrochloride Capsules, USP 30 mg are Size #2 hard gelatin capsules, Blue opaque cap with white opaque body, imprinted with “ CE ” on the cap and “ 29 ” on the body with black ink, filled with white to off-white powder.
15 mg and 30 mg capsules. ( 3 )
⛔ Contraindications ▾
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Flurazepam hydrochloride capsules are contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to flurazepam or other benzodiazepines. Rare cases of angioedema involving the tongue, glottis or larynx have been reported in patients after taking the first or subsequent doses of flurazepam. Some patients have had additional symptoms such as dyspnea, throat closing, or nausea and vomiting that suggest anaphylaxis.
Patients who develop such reactions should not be rechallenged with flurazepam. Hypersensitivity to flurazepam or other benzodiazepines. ( 4 )
⚠️ Warnings and Cautions ▾
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS CNS depressant effects: Impaired alertness and motor coordination, including risk of falling. Daytime impairment. Caution patients against driving and other activities requiring complete mental alertness.
( 5.4 ) The failure of insomnia to remit after 7 to 10 days of treatment may indicate the presence of a primary psychiatric and/or medical illness that should be evaluated. ( 5.5 ) Severe anaphylactic/anaphylactoid reactions: Angioedema and anaphylaxis have been reported. Do not rechallenge if such reactions occur.
( 5.6 ) Sleep driving and other complex behaviors while not fully awake: Risk increases with dose and concomitant CNS depressants and alcohol. Immediately evaluate any new onset behavioral changes. ( 5.7 ) Worsening of depression or suicidal thinking may occur: Prescribe the least number of capsules feasible to avoid intentional overdose.
( 5.8 ) Neonatal Sedation and Withdrawal Syndrome: Flurazepam use during pregnancy can result in neonatal sedation and/or neonatal withdrawal. ( 5.9 )
5.1Risks from Concomitant Use of Opioids Concomitant use of benzodiazepines, including flurazepam, and opioids may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, coma, and death. Because of these risks, reserve concomitant prescribing of benzodiazepines and opioids in patients for whom alternative treatment options are inadequate. Observational studies have demonstrated that concomitant use of opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines increases the risk of drug-related mortality compared to use of opioids alone.
If a decision is made to prescribe flurazepam concomitantly with opioids, prescribe the lowest effective dosages and minimum durations of concomitant use, and follow patients closely for signs and symptoms of respiratory depression and sedation. Advise both patients and caregivers about the risks of respiratory depression and sedation when flurazepam is used with opioids [see Drug Interactions ( 7 )].
5.2Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction The use of benzodiazepines, including flurazepam hydrochloride capsules, exposes users to the risks of abuse, misuse, and addiction, which can lead to overdose or death. Abuse and misuse of benzodiazepines often (but not always) involve the use of doses greater than the maximum recommended dosage and commonly involve concomitant use of other medications, alcohol, and/or illicit substances, which is associated with an increased frequency of serious adverse outcomes, including respiratory depression, overdose, or death [see Drug Abuse and Dependence ( 9.2 ) ].
Before prescribing flurazepam hydrochloride capsules and throughout treatment, assess each patient’s risk for abuse, misuse, and addiction (e.g., using a standardized screening tool). Use of flurazepam hydrochloride capsules, particularly in patients at elevated risk, necessitates counseling about the risks and proper use of flurazepam hydrochloride capsules along with monitoring for signs and symptoms of abuse, misuse, and addiction. Prescribe the lowest effective dosage; avoid or minimize concomitant use of CNS depressants and other substances associated with abuse, misuse, and addiction (e.g., opioid analgesics, stimulants); and advise patients on the proper disposal of unused drug.
If a substance use disorder is suspected, evaluate the patient and institute (or refer them for) early treatment, as appropriate.
5.3Dependence and Withdrawal Reactions To reduce the risk of withdrawal reactions, use a gradual taper to discontinue flurazepam hydrochloride capsules or reduce the dosage (a patient-specific plan should be used to taper the dose) [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.3 )] . Patients at an increased risk of withdrawal adverse reactions after benzodiazepine discontinuation or rapid dosage reduction include those who take higher dosages, and those who have had longer durations of use. Acute Withdrawal Reactions: The continued use of benzodiazepines, including flurazepam hydrochloride capsules, may lead to…
🤒 Adverse Reactions ▾
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the label: Risks from Concomitant Use with Opioids [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ) ] Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] Dependence and Withdrawal Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ) ] CNS-depressant effects and next-day impairment [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] Severe Anaphylactic and Anaphylactoid Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] Abnormal thinking and behavior changes, and complex behaviors [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] Worsening of depression [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] Neonatal Sedation and Withdrawal Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 )] Adverse reactions: dizziness, drowsiness, light-headedness, staggering, ataxia, falling.
( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Chartwell RX, LLC. at 1-845-232-1683 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch .
6.1Clinical Trials Experience Reported were headache, heartburn, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, gastrointestinal pain, nervousness, talkativeness, apprehension, irritability, weakness, palpitations, chest pains, body and joint pains, and genitourinary complaints. There have also been rare occurrences of leukopenia, granulocytopenia, sweating, flushes, difficulty in focusing, blurred vision, burning eyes, faintness, hypotension, shortness of breath, pruritus, skin rash, dry mouth, bitter taste, excessive salivation, anorexia, euphoria, depression, slurred speech, confusion, restlessness, hallucinations and elevated SGOT, SGPT, total and direct bilirubin elevations, and elevated alkaline phosphatase.
🔄 Drug Interactions ▾
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids may result in profound sedation, respiratory depression, and death. ( 7.1 ) CNS Depressants: Downward dose adjustment may be necessary due to additive effects. ( 7.2 )
7.1Opioids The concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids increases the risk of respiratory depression because of actions at different receptor sites in the CNS that control respiration. Benzodiazepines interact at GABA A sites, and opioids interact primarily at mu receptors. When benzodiazepines and opioids are combined, the potential for benzodiazepines to significantly worsen opioid-related respiratory depression exists.
Limit dosage and duration of concomitant use of benzodiazepines and opioids, and follow patients closely for respiratory depression and sedation.
7.2CNS Depressants Benzodiazepines, including flurazepam, produce additive CNS depressant effects when co-administered with ethanol or other CNS depressants (e.g., psychotropic medications, anticonvulsants, antihistamines). Downward dose adjustment of flurazepam and/or concomitant CNS depressants may be necessary because of additive effects.
👥 Use in Specific Populations ▾
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Lactation: Breastfeeding not recommended. ( 8.2 )
8.1Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry: There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to psychiatric medications, including flurazepam, during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by calling the National Pregnancy Registry for Psychiatric Medications at 1-866-961-2388 or visiting online at https://womensmentalhealth.org/pregnancyregistry/ . Risk Summary Neonates born to mothers using benzodiazepines late in pregnancy have been reported to experience symptoms of sedation and/or neonatal withdrawal [ see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 ) and Clinical Considerations].
Available data from published observational studies of pregnant women exposed to benzodiazepines do not report a clear association with benzodiazepines and major birth defects (see Data) . The background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes.
In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions Benzodiazepines cross the placenta and may produce respiratory depression, hypotonia, and sedation in neonates. Monitor neonates exposed to flurazepam during pregnancy or labor for signs of sedation, respiratory depression, hypotonia, and feeding problems.
Monitor neonates exposed to HALCION during pregnancy for signs of withdrawal. Manage these neonates accordingly [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 )]. Data Human Data Published data from observational studies on the use of benzodiazepines during pregnancy do not report a clear association with benzodiazepines and major birth defects.
Although early studies reported an increased risk of congenital malformations with diazepam and chlordiazepoxide, there was no consistent pattern noted. In addition, the majority of more recent case-control and cohort studies of benzodiazepine use during pregnancy, which were adjusted for confounding exposures to alcohol, tobacco and other medications, have not confirmed these findings. Animal Data Administration of flurazepam to pregnant animals did not indicate a risk for adverse effects on morphological development at clinically relevant doses; however, animal data for other benzodiazepines suggest that possibility of adverse developmental effects (including long-term effects on neurobehavioral and immunological function) following prenatal exposure.
8.2Lactation Risk Summary There are no data on the presence of flurazepam in human or animal milk. There are reports of sedation, poor feeding and poor weight gain in infants exposed to benzodiazepines through breast milk. The effects of flurazepam on milk production are unknown.
Because of the flurazepam’s long half-life, the potential for flurazepam to accumulate in breast milk, and the potential for serious adverse reactions, including sedation and withdrawal symptoms in breastfed infants, advise patients that breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment with flurazepam.
8.4Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
8.5Geriatric Use Flurazepam may cause confusion and over-sedation in the elderly. Elderly patients generally should be started on a low dose of flurazepam and observed closely. Elderly or debilitated patients may be more sensitive to benzodiazepines, reflecting the greater frequency of decreased hepatic, renal, or cardiac function, and of concomitant disease or other drug therapy.
🆘 Overdosage ▾
10 OVERDOSAGE Overdosage of benzodiazepines is characterized by central nervous system depression ranging from drowsiness to coma. In mild to moderate cases, symptoms can include drowsiness, confusion, dysarthria, lethargy, hypnotic state, diminished reflexes, ataxia, and hypotonia. Rarely, paradoxical or disinhibitory reactions (including agitation, irritability, impulsivity, violent behavior, confusion, restlessness, excitement, and talkativeness) may occur.
In severe overdosage cases, patients may develop respiratory depression and coma. Overdosage of benzodiazepines in combination with other CNS depressants (including alcohol and opioids) may be fatal [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] . Markedly abnormal (lowered or elevated) blood pressure, heart rate, or respiratory rate raise the concern that additional drugs and/or alcohol are involved in the overdosage.
In managing benzodiazepine overdosage, employ general supportive measures, including intravenous fluids and airway management. Flumazenil, a specific benzodiazepine receptor antagonist indicated for the complete or partial reversal of the sedative effects of benzodiazepines in the management of benzodiazepine overdosage, can lead to withdrawal and adverse reactions, including seizures, particularly in the context of mixed overdosage with drugs that increase seizure risk (e.g., tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants) and in patients with long-term benzodiazepine use and physical dependency.
The risk of withdrawal seizures with flumazenil use may be increased in patients with epilepsy. Flumazenil is contraindicated in patients who have received a benzodiazepine for control of a potentially life-threatening condition (e.g., status epilepticus). If the decision is made to use flumazenil, it should be used as an adjunct to, not as a substitute for, supportive management of benzodiazepine overdosage.
See the flumazenil injection Prescribing Information. Consider contacting a poison center (1-800-222-1222), poisoncontrol.org , or a medical toxicologist for additional overdosage management recommendations.
🧬 Clinical Pharmacology ▾
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
12.1Mechanism of Action Flurazepam, like other central nervous system agents of the 1,4-benzodiazepine class, presumably exerts its effects by binding to stereo-specific receptors at several sites within the central nervous system (CNS). The exact mechanism of action is unknown.
12.3Pharmacokinetics Flurazepam hydrochloride is rapidly absorbed from the gastro-intestinal tract. Flurazepam is rapidly metabolized and is excreted primarily in the urine. Following a single oral dose, peak flurazepam plasma concentrations ranging from 0.5 to 4.0 ng/mL occur at 30 to 60 minutes post-dosing.
The harmonic mean apparent half-life of flurazepam is 2.3 hours. The blood level profile of flurazepam and its major metabolites was determined in man following the oral administration of 30 mg daily for 2 weeks. The N1-hydroxyethyl-flurazepam was measurable only during the early hours after a 30 mg dose and was not detectable after 24 hours.
The major metabolite in blood was N1-desalkyl-flurazepam, which reached steady-state (plateau) levels after 7 to 10 days of dosing, at levels approximately 5- to 6-fold greater than the 24-hour levels observed on Day 1. The half-life of elimination of N1-desalkyl-flurazepam ranged from 47 to 100 hours. The major urinary metabolite is conjugated N1-hydroxyethyl-flurazepam which accounts for 22% to 55% of the dose.
Less than 1% of the dose is excreted in the urine as N1-desalkyl-flurazepam. This pharmacokinetic profile may be responsible for the clinical observation that flurazepam is increasingly effective on the second or third night of consecutive use and that for 1 or 2 nights after the drug is discontinued both sleep latency and total wake time may still be decreased. The single dose pharmacokinetics of flurazepam were studied in 12 healthy geriatric subjects (aged 61 to 85 years).
The mean elimination half-life of desalkyl-flurazepam was longer in elderly male subjects (160 hours) compared with younger male subjects (74 hours), while mean elimination half-life was similar in geriatric female subjects (120 hours) and younger female subjects (90 hours). After multiple dosing, mean steady-state plasma levels of desalkyl-flurazepam were higher in elderly male subjects (81 ng/mL) compared with younger male subjects (53 ng/mL), while values were similar between elderly female subjects (85 ng/mL) and younger female subjects (86 ng/mL).
The mean washout half-life of desalkyl-flurazepam was longer in elderly male and female subjects (126 and 158 hours, respectively) compared with younger male and female subjects (111 and 113 hours, respectively). 1 1 Greenblatt DJ, Divoll M, Hammatz JS, MacLauglin DS, Shader RI: Kinetics and clinical effects of flurazepam in young and elderly noninsomniacs. Clin Pharmacol Ther 30: 475-486, 1981.
📦 How Supplied / Storage and Handling ▾
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Flurazepam Hydrochloride Capsules, USP are available containing either 15 mg or 30 mg of Flurazepam Hydrochloride, USP. Flurazepam Hydrochloride Capsules, USP 15 mg are Size #2 hard gelatin capsules, Blue opaque cap with white opaque body, imprinted with “ CE ” on the cap and “ 28 ” on the body with black ink, filled with white to off-white powder. They are available as follows, Bottle of 30's - NDC 62135-736-30 Bottle of 90’s - NDC 62135-736-90 Flurazepam Hydrochloride Capsules, USP 30 mg are Size #2 hard gelatin capsules, Blue opaque cap with white opaque body, imprinted with “ CE ” on the cap and “ 29 ” on the body with black ink, filled with white to off-white powder.
They are available as follows, Bottle of 30's - NDC 62135-737-30 Bottle of 90’s - NDC 62135-737-90 Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from light and moisture. Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container as defined in the USP using a child-resistant closure.
PHARMACIST: Dispense a Medication Guide with each prescription.
📋 Description ▾
11 DESCRIPTION Flurazepam Hydrochloride, USP is chemically 7-chloro-1-[2-(diethylamino)ethyl]-5-( ο -fluro-phenyl)-1,3-dihydro-2 H -1,4- benzodiazepin-2-one dihydrochloride. It is a pale yellow, crystalline compound, freely soluble in alcohol and very soluble in water. It has a molecular weight of 460.81 and the following structural formula: Each capsule, for oral administration, contains either 15 mg or 30 mg of Flurazepam Hydrochloride, USP.
In addition, each capsule contains the following inactive ingredients: anhydrous lactose, colloidal silicon dioxide, FD&C Blue #1, FD&C Red #3, gelatin, mannitol, magnesium stearate, talc, and titanium dioxide. Additionally, capsule shells of 15 mg and 30 mg are imprinted with black pharmaceutical ink. The compositions of the black pharmaceutical ink are black iron oxide, butyl alcohol, dehydrated alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, potassium hydroxide, propylene glycol, purified water, shellac, and strong ammonia solution. flurazepam-hydrochloride-structure
💬 Information for Patients ▾
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling ( Medication Guide ). Risks from Concomitant Use with Opioids: Advise both patients and caregivers about the risks of potentially fatal respiratory depression and sedation when flurazepam hydrochloride capsules are used with opioids and not to use such drugs concomitantly unless supervised by a healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 ), Drug Interactions ( 7.1 )]. Abuse, Misuse, and Addiction: Inform patients that the use of flurazepam hydrochloride capsules, even at recommended dosages, exposes users to risks of abuse, misuse, and addiction, which can lead to overdose and death, especially when used in combination with other medications (e.g., opioid analgesics), alcohol, and/or illicit substances .
Inform patients about the signs and symptoms of benzodiazepine abuse, misuse, and addiction; to seek medical help if they develop these signs and/or symptoms; and on the proper disposal of unused drug [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ) and Drug Abuse and Dependence ( 9.2 )]. Withdrawal Reactions: Inform patients that the continued use of flurazepam hydrochloride capsules may lead to clinically significant physical dependence and that abrupt discontinuation or rapid dosage reduction of flurazepam hydrochloride capsules may precipitate acute withdrawal reactions, which can be life-threatening.
Inform patients that in some cases, patients taking benzodiazepines have developed a protracted withdrawal syndrome with withdrawal symptoms lasting weeks to more than 12 months. Instruct patients that discontinuation or dosage reduction of flurazepam hydrochloride capsules may require a slow taper [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ) and Drug Abuse and Dependence ( 9.3 )]. CNS Depressant Effects and Next-Day Impairment: Tell patients that flurazepam can cause next-day impairment, even in the absence of symptoms.
Caution patients against driving or engaging in other hazardous activities or activities requiring complete mental alertness when using flurazepam. Tell patients that daytime impairment may persist for several days following discontinuation of flurazepam. Advise patients that increased drowsiness and decreased consciousness may increase the risk of falls in some patients [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )].
Abnormal Thinking and Behavior Change: Instruct patients that sedative hypnotics can cause abnormal thinking and behavior change, including “sleep-driving” and other complex behaviors while not being fully awake (preparing and eating food, making phone calls, or having sex). Tell patients to call you immediately if they develop any of these symptoms [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )]. Severe Allergic Reactions: Inform patients that severe allergic reactions can occur from flurazepam.
Describe the signs/symptoms of these reactions and advise patients to seek medical attention immediately if these occur. Worsening of Depression: Tell patients that flurazepam can worsen depression, and to immediately report any suicidal thoughts [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )]. Alcohol and Other Drugs: Ask patients about alcohol consumption, medicines they are taking now, and drugs they may be taking without a prescription.
Advise patients that alcohol generally should not be used during treatment with flurazepam. Pregnancy: Advise pregnant females that use flurazepam late in pregnancy can result in sedation (respiratory depression, lethargy, hypotonia) and/or withdrawal symptoms (hyperreflexia, irritability, restlessness, tremors, inconsolable crying, and feeding difficulties) in newborns [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 ), Use in Specific Populations ( 8.1 )] . Instruct patients to inform their healthcare provider if they are pregnant.
Advise patients that there is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to flurazepam during pregnancy [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.1 )]. Lac…
💬 Medication Guide ▾
Print Medication Guides at: www.chartwellpharma.com/medguides Medication Guide Flurazepam Hydrochloride Capsules, USP (flur az' e pam hye" droe klor' ide) What is the most important information I should know about flurazepam hydrochloride capsules? Flurazepam hydrochloride capsules are a benzodiazepine medicine. Taking benzodiazepines with opioid medicines, alcohol, or other central nervous system (CNS) depressants (including street drugs) can cause severe drowsiness, breathing problems (respiratory depression), coma and death.
Get emergency help right away if any of the following happens: shallow or slowed breathing breathing stops (which may lead to the heart stopping) excessive sleepiness (sedation). Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how taking flurazepam hydrochloride capsules with opioids affect you. Risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction.
There is a risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction with benzodiazepines, including flurazepam hydrochloride capsules, which can lead to overdose and serious side effects including coma and death. Serious side effects including coma and death have happened in people who have abused or misused benzodiazepines, including flurazepam hydrochloride capsules. These serious side effects may also include delirium, paranoia, suicidal thoughts or actions, seizures, and difficulty breathing.
Call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away if you get any of these serious side effects. You can develop an addiction even if you take flurazepam hydrochloride capsules exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Take flurazepam hydrochloride capsules exactly as your healthcare provider prescribed.
Do not share your flurazepam hydrochloride capsules with other people. Keep flurazepam hydrochloride capsules in a safe place and away from children. Physical dependence and withdrawal reactions.
Flurazepam hydrochloride capsules can cause physical dependence and withdrawal reactions, especially if you continue to take flurazepam hydrochloride capsules for several days to several weeks. Do not suddenly stop taking flurazepam hydrochloride capsules . Stopping flurazepam hydrochloride capsules suddenly can cause serious and life-threatening side effects, including unusual movements, responses, or expressions, seizures, sudden and severe mental or nervous system changes, depression, seeing or hearing things that others do not see or hear, an extreme increase in activity or talking, losing touch with reality, and suicidal thoughts or actions.
Call your healthcare provider or go to the nearest hospital emergency room right away if you get any of these symptoms. Some people who suddenly stop benzodiazepines have symptoms that can last for several weeks to more than 12 months , including anxiety, trouble remembering, learning, or concentrating, depression, problems sleeping, feeling like insects are crawling under your skin, weakness, shaking, muscle twitching, burning or prickling feeling in your hands, arms, legs or feet, and ringing in your ears. Physical dependence is not the same as drug addiction.
Your healthcare provider can tell you more about the differences between physical dependence and drug addiction. Do not take more flurazepam hydrochloride capsules than prescribed or take flurazepam hydrochloride capsules for longer than prescribed. After taking flurazepam hydrochloride capsules, you may get up out of bed while not being fully awake and do an activity that you do not know you are doing.
The next morning, you may not remember that you did anything during the night. You have a higher chance for doing these activities if you drink alcohol or take other medicines that make you sleepy with flurazepam hydrochloride capsules. Reported activities include: driving a car (“sleep-driving”) ◦ having sex making and eating food ◦ sleep-walking talking on the phone Call your healthcare provider right away if you find out that you have done any of the above a…