Nitrazepam
Generic Details
Generic Name
Nitrazepam
Other Names
- Mogadon
Drug Class
- Benzodiazepine
Chemical Formula
C15H11N3O3
Molecular Weight
281.27 g/mol
Mechanism of Action
- Enhances the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the central nervous system by binding to specific benzodiazepine receptors.
Indications
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
Common Dosage Forms
- Tablet
- Oral solution
Typical Dosage
- 5-10 mg at bedtime for insomnia
- 2.5-5 mg for anxiety
Pediatric Dosage
- Not established
Geriatric Dosage
- Lower doses recommended due to increased sensitivity to side effects
Side Effects
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Confusion
- Muscle weakness
Contraindications
- Severe respiratory insufficiency
- Severe hepatic impairment
- Acute narrow-angle glaucoma
Pregnancy Category
- Category D - Potential risk of fetal harm if used during pregnancy
Lactation Safety
- Limited data available, caution advised
Drug Interactions
- Alcohol
- Other CNS depressants
- Fluvoxamine
Overdose Symptoms
- Drowsiness
- Mental confusion
- Hypotension
- Coma
Antidote for Overdose
- Flumazenil
Storage Conditions
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Pharmacokinetics
- Absorption: Rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract
- Distribution: Widely distributed throughout the body
- Metabolism: Primarily hepatic via CYP3A4
- Excretion: Mainly excreted in the urine
Precautions
- History of substance abuse
- Elderly patients
- Renal impairment
Warnings
- May cause dependence and withdrawal symptoms upon discontinuation
Others
- Avoid abrupt discontinuation
- Do not drive or operate heavy machinery while taking nitrazepam