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Compare Desyrel vs. Restoril

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Trazodone and temazepam (Restoril) are both medications used to help with sleep, but they work differently. Trazodone is an atypical antidepressant that is sometimes used off-label for insomnia, while temazepam is a benzodiazepine specifically approved for short-term treatment of insomnia. Trazodone affects serotonin levels in the brain and is not a controlled substance, meaning it does not carry a risk of addiction. In contrast, temazepam works by slowing down brain activity through GABA receptors and is a Schedule IV controlled substance due to its potential for misuse and addiction. Trazodone can be taken multiple times a day for depression or once at bedtime for sleep, but temazepam is only taken once at bedtime for sleep. Trazodone is generally considered safer for long-term use, whereas temazepam should only be used short-term for up to 10 days. Both medications can cause drowsiness and dizziness, but temazepam has additional risks like memory problems and complex behaviors such as sleepwalking.

  • Trazodone
    Temazepam (Restoril)
  • Trazodone
    Temazepam (Restoril)

  • Summary of Desyrel vs. Restoril

    Summary for Atypical antidepressant
    Prescription only

    Trazodone is an atypical antidepressant. It's FDA-approved to treat depression in adults, but it isn't a first-choice option. In addition, trazodone is sometimes prescribed off-label for difficulty sleeping (insomnia). This medication is taken by mouth, typically once or a few times a day, depending on your condition. Common side effects of this medication include sleepiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. Brand name Desyrel has been discontinued.

    Summary for Benzodiazepine
    Prescription only

    Temazepam (Restoril) is a short-term option for people who have insomnia (trouble sleeping). It's a benzodiazepine, so taking it can lead to misuse, addiction, and sometimes cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it. For this reason, it's a controlled substance, so you'll need close follow-up with your provider to make sure this medication remains safe for you to take. Common side effects include drowsiness, headache, nervousness, and sometimes a "hangover" feeling the next morning after your dose. The medication available as a brand name (Restoril) and a generic version.

  • Indications of Desyrel vs. Restoril

    Indications for
    •Major depressive disorder (MDD)
    Indications for
    •Short-term treatment of insomnia (trouble sleeping)

  • Pros and Cons of Desyrel vs. Restoril

    Pros and Const for Atypical antidepressant
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Fewer sexual side effects than some other antidepressants
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Starts to work within a week for treating depression
    Cons
    •Not a first-choice medication for depression
    •Can interact with other medications, especially those affecting serotonin levels
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it
    Pros and Const for Benzodiazepine
    Pros
    •Can help you fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night
    •Only taken once a day at bedtime
    •Dose can be adjusted by your provider based on your response
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Can cause memory problems, dizziness, and confusion
    •Can worsen suicidal thoughts in some people with depression
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly
    •Only recommended for short-term use (7 to 10 days)
    •Not recommended in pregnancy or breastfeeding

  • Common Side Effects of Desyrel vs. Restoril

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness (up to 41%)
    •Dry mouth (up to 34%)
    •Dizziness or lightheadedness (up to 28%)
    •Headache (up to 20%)
    •Blurred vision (up to 15%)
    •Nausea or vomiting (up to 13%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Drowsiness (9%)
    •Headache (9%)
    •Fatigue or exhaustion (5%)
    •Nervousness (5%)
    •Tiredness (5%)
    •Dizziness (5%)
    •Nausea (3%)

  • Warnings of Desyrel vs. Restoril

    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
    •Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
    •Dizziness from lower blood pressure
    •Risk of bleeding
    •Prolonged and painful erection
    •Glaucoma
    •Low blood sodium levels
    •Withdrawal
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sedation and difficulty breathing
    •Risk of misuse and addiction
    •Risk of dependence and withdrawal
    •Complex behaviors
    •Harm to babies
    •Suicidal thoughts and behaviors
    •Severe allergic reactions

  • Prices with our coupons for Desyrel vs. Restoril

    Learn more about Trazodone
    Learn more about Temazepam

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