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Compare Rozerem vs. Restoril

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

Key takeaways

Ramelteon (Rozerem) and temazepam (Restoril) are both used to treat insomnia, but they work in different ways and have different risks. Ramelteon is a melatonin receptor agonist that mimics the natural hormone melatonin to help you fall asleep. It is not a controlled substance and is not known to be habit-forming. On the other hand, temazepam is a benzodiazepine that works by slowing down brain activity. It is a Schedule IV controlled substance due to its risks of misuse, addiction, and withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly. Temazepam is only recommended for short-term use and can cause a "hangover" feeling the next day, whereas ramelteon is not associated with this effect. Both medications are available in generic forms, but temazepam requires close monitoring due to its potential for dependence and serious side effects. Ramelteon is typically taken 30 minutes before bedtime on an empty stomach, while temazepam can be taken with or without food.

  • Ramelteon (Rozerem)
    Temazepam (Restoril)
  • Ramelteon (Rozerem)
    Temazepam (Restoril)

  • Summary of Rozerem vs. Restoril

    Summary for Melatonin receptor agonist
    Prescription only

    Ramelteon (Rozerem) is a sleeping pill used to treat insomnia in adults. It belongs to the drug class known as melatonin receptor agonists and works like melatonin. Ramelteon (Rozerem) is taken by mouth, typically about 30 minutes before bedtime. Unlike some other prescription sleep medications, ramelteon (Rozerem) isn't a controlled substance nor known to be habit-forming. Side effects of ramelteon (Rozerem) aren't common, but can include drowsiness and dizziness.

    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.

  • Indications of Rozerem vs. Restoril

    Indications for
    •Insomnia (difficulty falling asleep)
    Indications for
    •Short-term treatment of insomnia (trouble sleeping)

  • Pros and Cons of Rozerem vs. Restoril

    Pros and Const for Melatonin receptor agonist
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Not a controlled substance and isn't known to be habit-forming
    •Fewer side effects than some other sleep medications
    •Available as a generic medication
    Cons
    •Shouldn't take with or right after a high-fat meal
    •Can interact with many medications, including fluconazole, rifampin, and fluvoxamine
    •Not recommended for people with sleep apnea or severe liver problems
    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

  • Common Side Effects of Rozerem vs. Restoril

    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness (4%)
    •Sleepiness (3%)
    •Fatigue (3%)
    •Nausea (3%)
    •Worsening insomnia (3%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Drowsiness (9%)
    •Headache (9%)
    •Fatigue or exhaustion (5%)
    •Nervousness (5%)
    •Tiredness (5%)
    •Dizziness (5%)
    •Nausea (3%)

  • Warnings of Rozerem vs. Restoril

    Common Side Effects for
    •Severe allergic reaction
    •Changes in behavior and unusual thoughts
    •Other causes of insomnia
    •Caution while driving
    •Hormonal changes
    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

  • Prices with our coupons for Rozerem vs. Restoril

    Learn more about Ramelteon
    Learn more about Temazepam

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