Nitrazepam 10mg — What It Is, How It Works & Who It Helps
Nitrazepam is one of the most widely used and well-known sleep drugs prescribed in the UK. Although Z-drugs, such as zopiclone, have been developed there are still certain presentations of severe insomnia which would benefit from its unique properties and for which nitrazepam 10mg is still prescribed. This article will clarify the proper use of nitrazepam, what it does, and who can benefit from it the best.
What is Nitrazepam?
Nitrazepam belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepine hypnotics — these drugs work by increasing the action of GABA in the brain and have sedating, muscle relaxing, anxiolytic and anticonvulsant effects. It has been sold in the UK since the 1960s and continues to be a prescription-only drug, approved for the short-term treatment of severe sleeping difficulties.
Unlike Z-drugs, which have a more specific effect on sleep-promoting GABA receptor subtypes, nitrazepam — and especially nitrazepam 10mg — has a wider range of effect that results in a more general depression in the central nervous system. This results in increased strength and duration of action and a higher likelihood of having a daytime residual effect.
What is the mechanism of action of Nitrazepam 10mg?
The mechanism of action of nitrazepam 10mg is its ability to attach to GABA-A receptors in the brain and increase the inhibitory effect of GABA. This results in:
- Decreased arousal of the nervous system at night's onset
- Quick sleep onset (usually within 30-60 minutes)
- More total sleep time
- Fewer nocturnal awakenings
- Some degree of anxiolytic effect (which may be beneficial for people who experience insomnia due to anxiety)
One of the most clinically relevant properties of the drug is its long half-life (15-38 hours). This is the reason why nitrazepam 10mg is effective in helping you sleep and why it leaves you feeling sleepy the next day.
For whom is Nitrazepam 10mg beneficial?
Typical uses of Nitrazepam 10mg include:
For adults who are having severe, debilitating insomnia, despite using other medications which are shorter acting, e.g. zopiclone. For people who get up a lot during the second half of night, the longer lasting action may be helpful.
Those who experience insomnia with a prominent anxiety component may benefit from the anxiolytic effects of nitrazepam, which may be more effective at treating those whose hyperarousal at bedtime is caused by anxiety.
The nitrazepam's muscle relaxant effect is sometimes beneficial for people who need to relax their muscles—insomnia due to physical tension or musculoskeletal pain.
Before taking Nitrazepam 10mg, there are some important considerations to take into account.
Long half-life = long lasting effects. The most clinically important aspect to know about nitrazepam 10mg is its duration. The effects last for 24 hours or longer. Impairment in the morning may be serious and should not be a concern for drivers who have taken nitrazepam, and should only be driven once they are sure they are no longer impaired by the drug.
The risk of dependency is a reality. Nitrazepam is a benzodiazepine, and has a moderate potential for developing physical dependence if used regularly. The prescribing guidelines for the UK limit the use to 2-4 weeks. Don't withdraw from heavy use – slowly and under medical control.
Not suitable for all adults. Nitrazepam is contraindicated in individuals with sleep apnoea, serious respiratory disease, severe liver disease, myasthenia gravis or a history of drug abuse.
Nitrazepam vs Zopiclone — Key Differences
Conclusion
Nitrazepam 10mg is a long-acting, highly effective hypnotic that has a solid track record in the treatment of severe insomnia, especially if anxiety plays a major role. Because of its mechanism of action, its use and its risks, it can be safely and effectively used as part of a medically-supervised insomnia treatment regimen.
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