Hypnodorm (Flunitrazepam)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Hypnodorm Used For?
Hypnodorm is a medication that helps treat severe insomnia, allowing individuals to achieve better sleep.
Primary Uses
Hypnodorm is primarily used for treating severe insomnia.
How It Works
It works by affecting brain chemicals to promote sleep.
Good to know: Hypnodorm is generally intended for short-term use and is not considered addictive when used as prescribed.
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How to Take Hypnodorm
Follow your doctor's instructions carefully when taking Hypnodorm.
Dosage Instructions
The typical dose is 1 mg to 2 mg (one to two tablets) taken at bedtime. Elderly patients may be prescribed 0.5 mg to 1 mg (half to one tablet).
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you forget to take Hypnodorm before bed, do not take it if you wake up late in the night or early in the morning. Do not double the dose.
Important: Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- tiredness or drowsiness
- hangover feeling in the morning
- headache
- confusion
- dizziness
- unsteadiness when walking
- stomach upsets
- dry mouth
- slurred speech
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- skin rash
- fast heartbeat
- muscle weakness
- aggressive behaviour
- delusions
- hallucinations
- severe sleep disturbances
- nightmares
- loss of memory
- swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue or throat
Impulse Control Issues
Patients may experience impulse control issues, including increased risk of harmful behaviours.
Important Warnings
Be aware of specific warnings associated with Hypnodorm.
Who Should Not Take Hypnodorm
Do not take Hypnodorm if you have allergies to flunitrazepam, other benzodiazepines, or any ingredients in the medication. It is also contraindicated in patients with severe lung disease, myasthenia gravis, sleep apnea, or severe liver disease.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have low blood pressure, liver or kidney issues, lung problems, blood disorders, glaucoma, depression, psychosis, or epilepsy.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as Hypnodorm can affect the fetus. It is not recommended while breastfeeding due to potential effects on the infant.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Elderly patients, especially those with dementia, should use caution as they may be more susceptible to side effects.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Hypnodorm, affecting its efficacy or increasing side effects.
Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit may affect how Hypnodorm works.
- other sleeping tablets
- sedatives or tranquilisers
- medications for depression
- antihistamines
- muscle relaxants
- strong pain relievers
- disulfiram
- anticholinergics
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating vehicles or machinery while on Hypnodorm.
Alcohol
Avoid alcohol while taking Hypnodorm, as it can enhance drowsiness and other side effects.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how Hypnodorm affects you, as it may cause drowsiness or dizziness.
Storage
Store Hypnodorm below 30°C in a cool, dry place, away from moisture and heat. Keep it in its original bottle until use.
Overdose Information
In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include drowsiness, confusion, muscle weakness, and trouble breathing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Hypnodorm typically works quickly to help you fall asleep, but individual responses may vary.
Hypnodorm can be taken with or without food.
Hypnodorm is intended for short-term use and is not considered addictive when taken as prescribed.
Stopping Hypnodorm suddenly may lead to withdrawal symptoms; it should be tapered off gradually under medical supervision.
It is advised to avoid alcohol while taking Hypnodorm, as it can increase drowsiness and other side effects.
Weight gain is not specifically mentioned as a side effect of Hypnodorm.
Elderly patients should use Hypnodorm with caution, as they may be more susceptible to side effects.
If you miss a dose, do not take it if you wake up late in the night or early in the morning. Do not double the dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.