Flurazepam is a sedative that’s prescribed to treat insomnia or induce sleep in people with sleep disorders. Flurazepam is also sold under the brand name Dalmane. Benzodiazepines work by stimulating the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which inhibits nerve activity. This slows down the central nervous system, reducing functions like breathing and heart rate. This sedative action helps people with insomnia sleep. However, as effective as this medication is, it’s important to be aware of Flurazepam side effects and risks.
Side Effects of Flurazepam (Dalmane)
Lack of quality of sleep can impact many aspects of a person’s life, making it difficult to think straight, practice emotional control, and make intelligent decisions. According to the CDC, between 50 and 70 million Americans suffer from a wakefulness or sleep disorder, which helps illustrate that insufficient sleep is a nationwide problem.1
The inability to fall or stay asleep is linked to brain chemistry. For instance, the neurotransmitter GABA helps to slow down nerve firings and reduces many autonomic responses, such as breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate. These functions are elevated in times of stress and lowered when a person is feeling relaxed, which is why flurazepam is used to treat sleep disorders.
However, like all medications, benzos can produce some unwanted symptoms. Common flurazepam (Dalmane) side effects include:
- Blurred vision
- Chest pain
- Cognitive difficulties
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Heart palpitations
- Heartburn
- Increased risk of injury from impaired motor coordination or passing out
- Increased risk of psychiatric symptoms
- Irritability
- Joint pain
- Lightheadedness
- Nausea
- Nervousness
- Skin rashes
- Stomach cramps or pain
- Talkativeness
Abusing or misusing flurazepam can amplify its side effects and risk factors. A Dalmane overdose can also occur if a person takes too high of a dose. If you experience any severe side effects while taking this medication, speak to your doctor right away. In the case of an overdose, call 9-1-1 or seek immediate medical attention.
Flurazepam Abuse Risks
Benzodiazepine medications are a class of prescription drugs commonly diverted and abused. When taken in high doses, these drugs are known for producing a sedative high. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) estimates that over 20 million people in the U.S. had abused benzos at least once in their lives in 2011.2
When a prescription drug like flurazepam is used outside of the recommended medical prescription, it’s considered drug abuse. This includes using larger amounts than prescribed and using the medication in a manner other than intended (e.g., crushing and snorting pills). Some people may also abuse benzos by combining them with other sedatives like alcohol or opioids.
The mellow “high” caused by flurazepam can make a person feel euphoric and relaxed, reducing stress and producing a calming effect. Decision-making abilities and judgment are also impaired as well as motor control. People who get high on flurazepam or other benzos may also experience slurred speech and poor coordination.
Benzodiazepines may also be used to facilitate sexual assault. These drugs can decrease one’s inhibition and impact short-term memory, making them popular date rape drugs.
When used or abused regularly, flurazepam can cause drug tolerance, physical dependence, and addiction. Physical dependence can make it difficult for the person to feel normal without the drug, leading them to continue using it more heavily and frequently. As a result, any time this person attempts to quit using flurazepam, they will experience withdrawal symptoms like depression, anxiety, vomiting and stomach cramps, sweating, and others.
For this reason, it’s important to only take prescription medications like Dalmane as prescribed and avoid sharing prescriptions with or borrowing them from others. However, if your Dalmane drug use has gotten out of control and you’re struggling to quit on your own, our benzodiazepine detox in Florida can help you start the journey to recovery.
Flurazepam Addiction Treatment
Dalmane medication abuse can not only impact a person’s physical and mental health, but it can also affect their ability to perform at work and school and maintain their relationships with loved ones. If someone you know has become addicted to their benzo medication, treatment is available.
Our high-end rehab center in Florida offers benzo addiction treatment that incorporates detox and psychotherapy to help clients recover physically and psychologically. We can aid in your recovery and make long-term sobriety possible.
Call Seaside Palm Beach today at 561-677-9374 to learn more about our PHP, IOP, and residential addiction treatment in Palm Beach.
Sources:
- NIH – Extent and Health Consequences of Chronic Sleep Loss and Sleep Disorders
- DEA – Benzodiazepines
Related Reading:
Benzos and Opiates: Which is More Addictive?
Benzodiazepines & Sleep: How Use & Abuse Affects Your Sleep
