Temazepam — NZ Medication Guide
📋 Reviewed by a Registered Pharmacist NZ — This information is for general educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
What is Temazepam?
Temazepam is a short-acting benzodiazepine hypnotic used for short-term treatment of insomnia. This medication is funded by Pharmac as a Class C controlled drug; requires special prescription.
What is Temazepam Used For?
Temazepam is used for short-term management of insomnia — particularly sleep initiation difficulty. It is a Class C controlled drug in New Zealand.
How Does Temazepam Work?
Temazepam enhances the activity of GABA at GABA-A receptors, increasing the frequency of chloride ion channel opening and reducing neuronal excitability — producing sedation and sleep induction.
How to Take Temazepam
Taken 10–30 mg orally at bedtime. Standard adult dose: 10–20 mg; elderly: start at 10 mg. Use the lowest effective dose. Do not take for more than 2–4 weeks continuously. Take only when committed to a full night’s sleep (7–8 hours).
Common Side Effects of Temazepam
- Morning drowsiness and hangover effect
- Dizziness and light-headedness
- Impaired coordination
- Memory impairment (anterograde amnesia)
- Paradoxical agitation (in elderly patients)
Serious Side Effects — Seek Medical Attention
Contact your doctor or call 111 immediately if you experience any of the following:
- Dependence (develops rapidly — serious concern with continuous use)
- Rebound insomnia on stopping
- Respiratory depression (with alcohol, opioids, or other CNS depressants)
- Complex sleep behaviours (sleep-walking, sleep-driving)
- Falls and injury in elderly patients
Drug Interactions
Temazepam may interact with other medicines. Always inform your doctor and pharmacist of all medications you are taking. Key interactions include:
- Alcohol (severe — additive CNS and respiratory depression)
- Opioids and other CNS depressants
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (may increase levels)
New Zealand Prescribing Information
Temazepam (10 mg tablets) is a Class C controlled substance in New Zealand, requiring a specially written controlled drug prescription. Due to risks of dependence, cognitive impairment, falls, and respiratory depression, benzodiazepine hypnotics are not recommended for elderly patients and should be used only as a short-term bridge while CBT-I or other measures are established.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between temazepam and zopiclone for sleep?
Both are hypnotics with similar mechanisms and risks. Temazepam is a benzodiazepine; zopiclone is a non-benzodiazepine (“Z-drug”). Both carry risks of dependence and are recommended only for short-term use. Zopiclone tends to be prescribed more frequently in NZ; temazepam may be preferred in some situations. Both should be considered a short-term measure while non-pharmacological insomnia treatment (CBT-I) is established.
Can I take temazepam every night?
No — nightly use for more than 2–4 weeks leads to tolerance (the medicine becomes less effective) and physical dependence. Stopping after prolonged nightly use causes rebound insomnia that can be worse than the original insomnia. Use only as directed, as infrequently as possible.
⚠️ Disclaimer: This page is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or a qualified health provider. In New Zealand, medication availability and funding may vary — check with Pharmac or your pharmacist for current information.
Reviewed by a Registered Pharmacist NZ
References & Further Information
The following New Zealand and international resources were used to inform this page: