BENZODIAZEPINES (SLEEP-INDUCING) - ORAL

USES: This medication is used to treat insomnia (sleeping disorders).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication 15 to 30 minutes before bedtime as directed. Take this with food or milk if stomach upset occurs. Do not suddenly stop taking this medication without first consulting your doctor if you have been taking this for some time. It may be necessary to gradually decrease the dose. Take this exactly as prescribed. Do not increase the dose or take this for longer than prescribed. Tolerance may develop with long-term or excessive use making it less effective.

SIDE EFFECTS: Stomach upset, blurred vision, headache, dizziness, depression, impaired coordination, trembling, nightmares, weakness, memory loss, hangover effect (grogginess) or clouded thinking may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, inform your doctor promptly. Report promptly: mental confusion, seizures. Very unlikely but report promptly: rapid heartbeat, yellowing eyes or skin, fever. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing. To avoid dizziness and lightheadedness when rising from a seated or lying position, get up slowly. Also limit your intake of alcoholic beverages which will aggravate these effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor if you have: kidney disease, liver disease, a history of drug dependence, history of depression, breathing problems, apnea, seizures, any allergies. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to the affects of the drug. This medication must not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. It is not known if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult your doctor before you breast-feed.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any over-the-counter or prescription medication you may take including: medication for depression, anti-seizure drugs, narcotic pain relievers (e.g., codeine), sedatives. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: Symptoms of overdose may include drowsiness, loss of coordination, slurred speech, unconsciousness, confusion, dizziness, shallow and slow breathing, or seizures.

NOTES: You may experience sleeping difficulties the first one or two nights after stopping this medication. Be aware of this effect. If the problem continues, contact your doctor. Elderly persons are usually more sensitive to the effects of this medication. Use cautiously.

MISSED DOSE: Take your dose at or near bedtime. If you miss a dose, do not take it if it is near the time for your next dose. Instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to catch up.

STORAGE: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom.