Flurazepam

Flurazepam is a long-acting benzodiazepine derivative used primarily for the short-term treatment of insomnia, including difficulty falling asleep, frequent nocturnal awakenings, and early morning awakenings. It acts as a central nervous system depressant by binding to an allosteric site on the Gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptor, enhancing the inhibitory effect of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and increasing chloride ion influx into neurons. This results in hyperpolarization and decreased neuronal excitability. Flurazepam produces an active metabolite with a long half-life, which can lead to residual sedative effects ("hangover") the next day. Its pharmacological profile includes anxiolytic, anticonvulsant, hypnotic, sedative, and muscle relaxant properties[1][2][3][4][5].

Brand names

Dalmane

Other names

flurazepam hydrochloride