ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.
Overview
It's a controlled substance, usually prescribed for 7 to 10 days.
What it's used for
- Insomnia (short-term)
How to take it
- Take it right before bed, only when you can sleep 7 to 8 hours.
- Don't stop suddenly after regular use.
Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.
Side effects
Common side effects
- Next-day drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Headache
Call 911Slow, shallow, or stopped breathing, blue lips, or can't be woken up
Call 911Sleep-driving or other activities you don't remember
Call 911Thoughts of suicide or harming yourself. Call or text 988 any time.
Warnings
- Boxed warnings: misuse, addiction, and dependence; deadly risk with opioids.
- Older adults are more likely to fall.
Other medicines, foods, and alcohol
- Taking it with opioids, alcohol, or other sedating medicines can slow breathing and cause death.
Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Not used in pregnancy.
Missed doses, overdose, and storage
If you miss a dose
Only take it at bedtime. If you forget, skip it that night; don't take it in the middle of the night.
If someone takes too much
Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.
Storing it
Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.
Conditions it's used for
Sources
- DailyMed: FDA drug label for Temazepam (U.S. National Library of Medicine)
- MedlinePlus: Drugs, herbs, and supplements
- FDA: Drugs@FDA
Last updated 2026-11-13.