Temazepam Addiction Treatment and Withdrawal
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What Is Restoril (Temazepam)?
Restoril is the brand name for temazepam, a benzodiazepine prescribed to treat short-term insomnia. It works by increasing the calming effects of GABA, a brain chemical that helps with relaxation and sleep.
Temazepam is usually prescribed in doses ranging from 7.5 mg to 30 mg. Doctors typically recommend using it for no more than 7 to 10 days. Using it longer or in higher doses raises the risk of physical dependence and addiction.
Some users report unusual behaviors such as driving or eating without memory of doing so. It can also create a euphoric high, making it prone to misuse. When combined with other sedatives or alcohol, the effects of temazepam can be amplified, leading to dangerous or even fatal outcomes.
Restoril (temazepam) is a benzodiazepine hypnotic used for short-term insomnia. Many people find it potently sedating, especially at bedtime doses, but “strength” varies by dose, age, other medicines, and individual sensitivity.
No. Both are benzodiazepines, but Xanax (alprazolam) is mainly for anxiety/panic, while temazepam is prescribed for sleep. They differ in onset, duration, and typical use.
Temazepam may be unsafe for people who have or are:
Alcohol or substance use disorder, or a history of misuse
Severe lung problems (e.g., sleep apnea, COPD), or myasthenia gravis
Depression/suicidality, significant liver disease, or elderly with fall risk
Pregnant or breastfeeding (generally avoided)
Taking opioids, alcohol, or other sedatives
Always use the lowest effective dose and only under medical supervision.
Drowsiness/next-day grogginess, dizziness, impaired coordination, memory problems, and confusion (especially in older adults). Less common: paradoxical agitation, complex sleep behaviors (sleep-walking/driving), and allergic reactions.
Is Temazepam Addictive?
Yes, temazepam is addictive. It’s a Schedule IV controlled substance, meaning it has approved medical uses but can also be abused. People may misuse Restoril to relax, get high, or sleep.
Examples of misuse include taking more pills than prescribed, taking them more often, or combining them with other substances like alcohol. These habits greatly increase the chances of overdose, dependency, or long-term health problems. Many individuals who misuse temazepam do so to cope with stress, anxiety, or other mental health symptoms that remain untreated.
Slang Names for Temazepam
Temazepam and similar benzodiazepines are often referred to as:
- Benzos
- Downers
- Tranks
- Nerve pills
These street names reflect the drug’s sedating effects and widespread recognition in recreational drug circles.
How Common Is Temazepam Abuse?
Restoril is among the top five most prescribed benzodiazepines in the U.S. Because of its popularity, it’s also one of the most commonly misused.
The National Survey on Drug Use reports that over 5 million Americans misused benzos like Restoril in the past year. Misuse often involves combining benzos with opioids, methamphetamine, or alcohol.
According to the Institute on Drug Abuse, emergency room visits related to temazepam have increased, especially among people with mental health conditions or other medical conditions. Often, these individuals do not have access to proper support and turn to drugs for temporary relief.
Signs of Temazepam Addiction
Common behavioral signs of addiction include:
- Taking someone else’s medication
- Using for longer than intended
- Hiding your use from others
- Visiting multiple doctors to obtain more prescriptions
Physical and emotional signs may include:
- Needing larger doses to get the same effect
- Feeling unable to stop
- Experiencing withdrawal when skipping a dose
- Continuing to use despite personal or financial problems
- Developing strong cravings
Symptoms of Benzo Withdrawal
Withdrawal can start soon after stopping the drug and may include:
- Muscle cramps
- Sweating
- Vomiting
- Anxiety
- Sleep issues
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Mood swings or agitation
If you have physical dependency, these symptoms can show up within 6 to 12 hours. Some individuals may also experience hallucinations or psychosis in extreme cases.
Temazepam Withdrawal Timeline
The temazepam withdrawal timeline varies. Here’s a general overview:
- 6 to 12 hours: Early signs of anxiety and restlessness
- 1 to 4 days: Symptoms worsen, including insomnia and irritability
- Week 2: Peak symptoms, such as mood swings and tremors
- Months later: Some may continue to struggle with depression or anxiety
Professional support can help manage symptoms and speed up recovery. Support groups and medication may be used to ease the process.
Why Medical Detox Is Important
Medical detox is often the first step. It offers a safe and supervised environment to stop using temazepam. A team of medical professionals will help with tapering and symptom management.
Detoxing in a treatment facility lowers the risk of complications like seizures. It also provides emotional support during this difficult stage. For many people, supervised detox is a necessary beginning to lasting change.
Nightly, long-term use can lead to tolerance, dependence, and rebound insomnia when stopping. Guidelines recommend short-term use and non-medication strategies (e.g., CBT-I) whenever possible.
Temazepam is not banned in the U.S.; it’s a Schedule IV controlled substance due to misuse and dependence risk. Some countries have tighter restrictions, which can create confusion.
Gastrointestinal side effects are uncommon but can include nausea, GI upset, or diarrhea. Report persistent symptoms to your prescriber.
They’re used differently. Temazepam is intended for insomnia; Klonopin (clonazepam) is mainly for anxiety/panic or seizures and isn’t a first-choice sleep aid. Your clinician will choose based on symptoms, risks, and other meds.
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Inpatient vs. Outpatient Drug Rehab
After detox, continuing care is vital. Two primary options are:
Inpatient Drug Rehab
- Live at the center full-time
- 24/7 monitoring under medical supervision
- Ideal for severe or complex cases involving substance use and mental health issues
- Provides structure and consistency with a dedicated support team
Outpatient Drug Rehab
- Live at home or in a sober living residence
- Attend therapy sessions during the day
- Great for those with work or family obligations
- Encourages independence while offering professional help
Some people choose intensive outpatient programs (IOPs), which combine structure with flexibility. An intensive outpatient program IOP includes several hours of weekly treatment while allowing you to live independently.
What Happens During Treatment?
The addiction treatment process is individualized. It typically includes:
- Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Group and individual counseling
- Family therapy and education for family members
- Life skills classes
- Treatment for co-occurring mental health disorders
- Relapse prevention education
An addiction treatment specialist will develop a personalized plan tailored to your needs. Regular updates to this plan ensure that as your situation changes, your care evolves with you.
Long-Term Recovery and Aftercare
Ongoing care helps prevent relapse and encourages success. Support groups and follow-up programs are vital parts of term recovery. These programs help you stay grounded and supported long after you leave formal treatment.
Sober Living Programs
These structured homes provide stability and accountability. Services often include:
- Regular drug testing
- Job placement help
- Peer support
- Help with daily routines
- Curfews and responsibilities
- Group meetings and sober mentorship
Aftercare Programs
Weekly group check-ins and one-on-one therapy sessions help you stay on track. Support from healthcare professionals is key to maintaining long term recovery. Many clients continue therapy for years after completing rehab to support emotional health.
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There isn’t one “best” option. Benzodiazepine hypnotics include temazepam, triazolam, estazolam, flurazepam, and quazepam. Non-benzodiazepine options (e.g., zolpidem, eszopiclone, zaleplon), doxepin, melatonin agonists, and CBT-I are often preferred for safety and long-term effectiveness.
Temazepam is intermediate-acting; many people get 6–8 hours of sleep coverage. Next-day effects can occur—avoid driving until you know how you respond.
It provides moderate-to-strong sedation that is dose-dependent. Sedation can be excessive—especially in older adults or when combined with alcohol, opioids, other sleep meds, or antihistamines—and may raise the risk of falls and breathing problems.
Risk Factors for Temazepam Addiction
Many factors including mental illness, genetics, trauma, and lack of social support can increase your increased risk. Using high doses or taking temazepam for extended periods raises the chance of developing a problem.
Mixing temazepam with prescription drugs, illegal drugs, or alcohol also makes addiction more likely. If you’re unsure, speak with a medical assistant or doctor. Regular monitoring and early intervention are vital.
Choosing the Right Treatment Options
Effective treatment options combine medical support with therapy. They must work for both inpatients and outpatients, especially those dealing with mental health disorders or chronic relapse issues.
The best programs include:
- Safe and guided medical management
- Flexible levels of care
- Long-term planning and relapse prevention
- Resources for family members and loved ones
- Support for rebuilding relationships and daily life skills
Comprehensive treatment should consider every part of a person’s health—mind, body, and spirit.
Start Your Temazepam Recovery Today
If you’re struggling with temazepam addiction, now is the time to act. Support, understanding, and effective care are within reach.
Recovery is a journey that begins with one step. With access to medical detox, therapy, and residential drug rehab, you can overcome addiction. Whether you need short-term support or a long-term strategy, there is a path forward.
Call Nova Recovery Center at (512) 605-2955 today to explore your personalized recovery process and get support from experienced professionals. The future is brighter than you think—take that step today.