Dalmane Addiction and Abuse: Overview Guide

Dalmane Overview

Dalmane (flurazepam) is a brand-name, prescription medication. Dalmane is a benzodiazepine and a sedative-hypnotic. Since it produces a calming effect on the brain, Dalmane is used primarily to treat insomnia. Dalmane may help patients fall asleep faster, stay asleep for longer periods and have fewer wakeful periods in the night. Dalmane is only intended to be used for a period of one to two weeks. If it’s used any longer than that, there is a risk of Dalmane addiction and substance misuse. Initially patented in the 1960s, flurazepam is unique because it has a very long half-life. A particular metabolite in this drug can stay in the bloodstream for days.

Side effects are possible with Dalmane. These can include drowsiness, feeling lightheaded, dizziness and ataxia. Ataxia is a condition characterized by involuntary muscle movement and changes in how someone walks. Patients are warned only to use Dalmane exactly as prescribed and to take it only before they can sleep for an entire night. Another possible common side effect is daytime drowsiness. It’s possible Dalmane can cause short-term memory loss as well, although this isn’t common. People are warned that if they take it and have to be up before having at least seven to eight hours of sleep, they’re more likely to experience memory loss. Severe side effects requiring immediate medical attention include changes in mood or behavior, thoughts of suicide, confusion, aggression and hallucinations.

Included in the warnings about Dalmane is the potential to get out of bed and do certain activities while not fully awake. For example, some people have driven vehicles, or sleepwalked and prepared meals while using Dalmane. These activities can be dangerous. This risk is higher in people who combine Dalmane with alcohol or other drugs.

There are warnings about the use of benzodiazepines like Dalmane. Certain groups of people should be prescribed these medications with particular caution. For example, doctors should be aware of the risks of falls and accidents when this medication is taken, especially by elderly people. Pregnant women and people with drug or alcohol dependencies also probably shouldn’t use Dalmane.

Dalmane Abuse

There is a reason patients are instructed to take Dalmane for no longer than two weeks. Benzodiazepines alter brain activity and affect the neurotransmitter GABA. By affecting GABA and its receptors, Dalmane can have a calming effect on the brain which promotes sleep. However, this also means misuse, addiction and dependence are possible.

Dalmane abuse can include different scenarios. One example of misuse would be taking this medication for a longer period than what’s instructed by a doctor. Another instance of Dalmane abuse could include intentionally using it with alcohol to enhance the effects of both substances. Taking larger doses or taking it more frequently than prescribed can also be considered misuse, or using Dalmane without a prescription. Dalmane abuse signs don’t mean that a person is addicted to the drug, but they do increase the chances of developing an addiction.

When someone misuses Dalmane, they’re more likely to experience pleasure or euphoria. They may also find the sense of relaxation or sedation enjoyable. These are responses that can trigger addiction. Addiction is a brain disease, and symptoms include being unable to control the use of Dalmane or using it even when there are negative consequences. Other possible signs of Dalmane addiction can include:

• Being focused or preoccupied with the drug, including getting more and using it
• Continuing to use Dalmane even when there are negative side effects such as memory loss
• Withdrawing from friends and family
• Doctor shopping to get new or multiple prescriptions
• Stealing medications from friends and family
• Declining performance at school or work
• Problems in relationships
• Buying Dalmane illegally without a prescription
• Trying unsuccessfully to stop using Dalmane

With Dalmane addiction and abuse, there are significant risks. For example, people who misuse benzodiazepines often misuse other substances like prescription painkillers or alcohol. This increases the chances of a fatal overdose. There can also be complications with co-occurring mental health disorders that someone attempts to self-medicate. These problems can actually become worse when someone is abusing a drug like Dalmane.

Benzodiazepine misuse and addiction are treatable with the right recovery plan. Contact The Recovery Village, and we can explore available options.