Restoril vs. Butisol for Insomnia: Important Differences and Potential Risks.

Key takeaways

Temazepam (Restoril) and butabarbital (Butisol) are both medications used to help with sleep issues, but they belong to different drug classes. Temazepam is a benzodiazepine, while butabarbital is a barbiturate. Temazepam is FDA-approved for the short-term treatment of insomnia and is available as a generic, whereas butabarbital has been discontinued and is no longer available in the U.S. Temazepam is taken orally, usually at bedtime, and is a Schedule IV controlled substance due to its potential for misuse and addiction. Butabarbital was a Schedule III controlled substance, indicating a higher potential for abuse compared to temazepam. Common side effects of temazepam include drowsiness, headache, and dizziness, and it can interact dangerously with opioids and alcohol. Butabarbital was known for its fast-acting properties but was not a first-choice treatment due to its habit-forming nature.

Temazepam

(Restoril)

Get free coupons

Butisol

(butabarbital)

Get free coupons

Summary for Restoril

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 for Restoril

Short-term treatment of insomnia (trouble sleeping)

Pros and Cons for Restoril

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 for Restoril

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

Warnings for Restoril

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

Summary for Butisol

Discontinued

Butisol (butabarbital) is a fast-acting sleep medication. It's not a first choice treatment option and has been discontinued. Both brand and generic options are no longer available in the U.S.