Compare
Restoril vs. Ativan

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.

• Short-term treatment of insomnia (trouble sleeping)

• Drowsiness (9%)
• Headache (9%)
• Fatigue or exhaustion (5%)
• Nervousness (5%)
• Tiredness (5%)
• Dizziness (5%)
• Nausea (3%)

• 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

Lorazepam (Ativan) is a benzodiazepine used for short-term treatment of anxiety. The oral tablets and solution are taken by mouth, typically 1 to 3 times daily, depending on the formulation. Lorazepam is also available as an injectable medication that's given by healthcare professionals in a hospital setting to control seizures. Sleepiness and dizziness are the most common side effects of lorazepam (Ativan).

• Anxiety disorders
• Anxiety associated with depressive symptoms
• Short-term relief of anxiety
• Seizures lasting longer than 5 minutes - injection only
• Surgery-related anxiety, usually given shortly before anesthesia - injection only

• Sleepiness (16%)
• Dizziness (7%)
• Weakness (4%)
• Unsteadiness (3%)

• Sedation and difficulty breathing
• Misuse, dependence, and withdrawal
• Depression and suicidal thoughts or behaviors
• Effect on driving and concentration
• Trouble breathing
• Risk of agitation and restlessness
• Harm to babies
• Serious allergic reaction (Loreev XR only)