Restoril (Temazepam) Misuse

Restoril is a drug that can be helpful to many people who have problems with sleep, but it can be dangerous when misused. On this page, you can learn more about what Restoril is, the effects of using it, how addictive it is, and what withdrawal and detox from it can be like. You can also find out more about seeking treatment for Restoril addiction and misuse.

What is Restoril?

Restoril, which is the brand name for the generic drug temazepam, is a prescription benzodiazepine.¹ Restoril can be a helpful benzodiazepine medication when taken as prescribed and for the conditions it is approved to treat. However, people often misuse benzodiazepines like Restoril.² Some people misuse benzodiazepines in combination with opioids or other drugs, to enhance their euphoric effects, reduce their unwanted effects, and to alleviate withdrawal.^2,3

What is Restoril Used For?

Restoril is a type of benzodiazepine that is FDA-approved to treat insomnia.¹ It is a short-term insomnia treatment medication, as it is recommended that it only be taken for 7-10 days to help treat symptoms associated with this condition.¹ Since Restoril is a powerful prescription medication, it should be taken only as directed.¹

Restoril Effects

Using Restoril can result in numerous effects that can be both short- and long-term. While these effects can vary from one person to another, typical short-term side effects of Restoril use can include:¹

• Drowsiness.
• Headache.
• Nervousness.
• Nausea.
• Fatigue.

It is possible for a person to still feel drowsy the day after taking Restoril.¹ However, it is important to note that if Restoril is taken with other sedatives, such as alcohol, or with opioids, it greatly increases the potential risk of a fatal overdose.^1,4 When people take any benzodiazepine, including Restoril, on a long-term basis, it may increase the risk of:^5,6

• Cognitive impairment and decline.
• Impaired motor function and motor vehicle crashes.
• Injuries associated with falls in the elderly.
• Misuse, dependence and addiction, particularly those with a family history of substance use disorder.

Is Restoril Addictive?

Restoril has the potential for misuse, dependence and addiction, as it is a schedule IV controlled substance.⁷

When someone takes a benzodiazepine regularly, there is the potential they may develop tolerance, which means that they require higher or more frequent doses of it to keep achieving the same desired effects.⁸

A person can develop dependence to Restoril or other benzodiazepines in a relatively short period of time if they are taken regularly. Dependence occurs after the body has become accustomed to the presence of Restoril or another addictive substance, and the body has adapted in such a way that they need the drug to function normally. If they abruptly stop using the substance, they will experience withdrawal symptoms.⁹

The risk for misuse, dependence, and addiction of this substance is increased in those with a family history of substance use disorder.¹

Signs of Restoril Addiction

The signs of Restoril addiction can vary from one person to another, but in general, there are certain signs to look for if you suspect that either you or your loved one is addicted to Restoril. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), there are 11 criteria that are used to diagnose someone with a substance use disorder. Some of these criteria include, but are not limited to, the following:¹⁰

• Persistent attempts or one or more unsuccessful efforts are made to curb or stop use.
• Continued substance use despite having continued social or interpersonal problems caused or exacerbated by the substance.
• Recurrent substance use in physically hazardous situations.
• Craving or strong desire to use the substance.
• Important social, occupational, or recreational activities are given up or decreased because of substance use.
• A great deal of time is spent in acquiring, using, or recovering from the use of the substance.
• Continuing to use even when doing so results in failure to fulfill responsibilities at work, home, or school.
• Substance use is continued despite knowing that there exists a physical or psychological problem that is exacerbated or caused by the substance.
• Substance is taken in larger amounts or for longer periods of time than initially intended.

For someone to receive a diagnosis of a substance use disorder, they must be exhibiting 2 or more criteria in the past 12 months.¹⁰

Restoril Withdrawal and Detox

As noted earlier, when people take Restoril or any benzodiazepine regularly over a period of time, even when under a doctor’s supervision, it is possible to develop a dependence on it.¹ When a person is dependent on Restoril, the sudden cessation or significant reduction of its use will result in withdrawal symptoms.¹

The severity and duration of withdrawal symptoms will vary in part based upon such factors as:^5,11

• The dosage.
• How long an individual has taken Restoril.
• If the individual is dependent on other substances, such as alcohol or opioids.
• Overall health.
• Co-occurring mental health disorders.
• If the person has prior experience with withdrawal from sedatives.

Restoril Withdrawal Symptoms

Restoril withdrawal is associated with the following symptoms, which can range in intensity.¹ Some of these symptoms can include:¹

• Shaking (tremor).
• Sweating.
• Vomiting.
• Muscle cramps.
• Depression.
• Insomnia.
• Seizures.

It is important to know that suddenly stopping the use of Restoril can be dangerous and should not be attempted without medical supervision or guidance.^1,11

How to Treat Restoril Misuse

If you want to stop using Restoril, it is recommended to get professional medical help to ensure your safety and prevent or manage potential dangerous withdrawal symptoms.¹¹ Detox is designed to help you clear an addictive substance out of your body and also serves as a way prepare for further treatment, which can help you avoid relapse and maintain long-term abstinence.¹¹

If you are seeking help for Restoril withdrawal, Greenhouse Treatment Center can offer you inpatient rehab near Dallas. There are many different ways to treat addiction, including both inpatient and outpatient treatment options, both of which we offer.

To start the admission process, call us today and speak to an admissions navigator. Our admissions navigators can provide information and answer questions you might have about the levels of care that we offer, as well as using insurance to pay for rehab. In addition, you can learn about other ways to pay for rehab.