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Restoril vs. Silenor

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

Key takeaways

Temazepam (Restoril) and Silenor (doxepin) are both used to treat insomnia, but they have some key differences. Temazepam is a benzodiazepine capsule that works by slowing down brain activity, making it easier to fall and stay asleep. It is a controlled substance (Schedule IV) due to its potential for misuse, addiction, and withdrawal symptoms. Silenor, on the other hand, is a tricyclic antidepressant tablet that blocks histamine receptors to help you stay asleep. Unlike temazepam, Silenor is not addictive and is not a controlled substance. Temazepam is typically used for short periods (7 to 10 days) and can cause a "hangover" effect the next day, while Silenor can be used longer without the risk of dependency. Both medications are available in generic forms, but Silenor must be taken on an empty stomach, whereas temazepam can be taken with or without food.

Temazepam

(Restoril)

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Doxepin

(Silenor)

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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 Silenor

Prescription only

Doxepin (Silenor) is a tricyclic antidepressant that's used to help adults who have insomnia (trouble sleeping) stay asleep. Doxepin (Silenor) is a tablet that you take by mouth 30 minutes before bedtime. As expected, the most common side effects are sleepiness and tiredness, so only take the medication when you're ready to fall asleep for the night. Unlike some other sleep medications, doxepin (Silenor) isn't considered a controlled substance. Doxepin (Silenor) is available as brand-name and generic versions.

Indications for Silenor

  • Insomnia (specifically trouble staying asleep)

Pros and Cons for Silenor

Pros

  • Taken once a day close to bedtime
  • Few side effects (other than sleepiness)
  • Non-addictive sleep medication

Cons

  • Shouldn't take with food (must take at least 3 hours before or after food)
  • Risk of doing activities while you're not fully awake and not remembering that you did them the next day
  • Not approved for people younger than 18 years of age

Common Side Effects for Silenor

  • Sleepiness or tiredness (up to 9%)

Warnings for Silenor

  • Check for other causes of insomnia
  • Behavior changes
  • Worsened depression and risk for suicidal thoughts and behavior
  • Sleepiness and tiredness

Prices with our coupons for Restoril vs. Silenor

Price Card Drug Icon
Temazepam30 capsules / 30mg
$12.78$20.99
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Price Card Drug Icon
Doxepin30 tablets / 3mg
$53.04$315.60
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