Key takeaways
Temazepam (Restoril) and doxepin (Sinequan) are both medications that can be used to help with sleep issues, but they belong to different medication classes. Temazepam is a benzodiazepine primarily used for short-term treatment of insomnia, while doxepin is a tricyclic antidepressant (TCA) FDA-approved for depression and anxiety, but its tablet form (Silenor) is also approved for insomnia. Temazepam is a controlled substance due to its potential for misuse and addiction, whereas doxepin is not a controlled medication. Temazepam is typically taken as a 15 mg dose at bedtime as needed, while doxepin's dose for depression and anxiety ranges from 75 mg to 150 mg daily. Temazepam comes in a generic and brand version, while doxepin is only available as a generic medication. Common side effects of temazepam include drowsiness and headache. Mixing temazepam with alcohol or opioids can cause dangerously slow breathing. Doxepin can cause drowsiness, dry mouth, and blurred vision. Mixing doxepin with alcohol can make drowsiness and dizziness worse and increase the risk of falls. Both medications can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly.
