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Compare Restoril vs. Chlordiazepoxide

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

Key takeaways

Temazepam (Restoril) and chlordiazepoxide (Librium) are both benzodiazepines, but they are used for different purposes. Temazepam is primarily used for short-term treatment of insomnia, helping you fall asleep and stay asleep. In contrast, chlordiazepoxide is used for short-term relief of anxiety symptoms and to prevent alcohol withdrawal symptoms, like seizures. Temazepam is taken once daily at bedtime, while chlordiazepoxide can be taken multiple times a day depending on your condition. Both medications have a risk of addiction and misuse, so they are classified as Schedule IV controlled substances. Temazepam starts working within 30 minutes, whereas chlordiazepoxide can take up to 4 hours to reach maximum levels in your blood. Both medications are available in generic forms, making them more affordable options. However, neither is recommended for long-term use due to the risk of dependence and withdrawal symptoms.

  • Temazepam (Restoril)
    Chlordiazepoxide
  • Temazepam (Restoril)
    Chlordiazepoxide

  • Summary of Restoril vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    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.

    Summary for Benzodiazepine
    Prescription only

    Chlordiazepoxide is used for the short-term relief of anxiety symptoms. It can also prevent alcohol withdrawal symptoms, like seizures. This medication has a risk of addiction, so it's classified as a schedule IV controlled substance. Your dose will depend on the reason why you're using it, your age, and your other health conditions. Some possible side effects of chlordiazepoxide include drowsiness, trouble with balance and movement, and confusion. Chlordiazepoxide comes as a capsule, and is available as a brand name and a lower-cost generic.

  • Indications of Restoril vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    Indications for
    •Short-term treatment of insomnia (trouble sleeping)
    Indications for
    •Alcohol withdrawal
    •Preoperative anxiety and anxiety disorders

  • Pros and Cons of Restoril vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    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
    Pros and Const for Benzodiazepine
    Pros
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •A first-choice treatment option for alcohol withdrawal
    •Can be used in children age 6 and older
    •Dose can be adjusted by your provider based on your response
    Cons
    •Controlled medication due to the risk of addiction, misuse, and dependence
    •Risk of more side effects in older adults
    •Can cause withdrawal if suddenly stopped
    •Should only be used short-term

  • Common Side Effects of Restoril vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    Common Side Effects for
    •Drowsiness (9%)
    •Headache (9%)
    •Fatigue or exhaustion (5%)
    •Nervousness (5%)
    •Tiredness (5%)
    •Dizziness (5%)
    •Nausea (3%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Drowsiness
    •Confusion
    •Loss of coordination (clumsiness)

  • Warnings of Restoril vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    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
    Common Side Effects for
    •Risks while also taking opioids
    •Potential for addiction, misuse, dependence, and withdrawal
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Harm to babies

  • Prices with our coupons for Restoril vs. Chlordiazepoxide

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    Learn more about Chlordiazepoxide

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