ABSTRACT
Long-term nitrazepam pharmacotherapy, or regular personal use, may result in addiction and habituation. Avoid the abrupt discontinuation of nitrazepam pharmacotherapy, particularly when pharmacotherapy has been extended over several months. A gradual reduction of dosage is recommended before nitrazepam pharmacotherapy is completely discontinued. Nitrazepam pharmacotherapy commonly has been associated with dizziness, drowsiness, falling, fatigue, incoordination, lethargy, lightheadedness, mental confusion, and a staggering gait. Nitrazepam overdosage requires emergency symptomatic medical support of body systems with attention to increasing nitrazepam elimination. Concurrent nitrazepam pharmacotherapy with drugs that inhibit cytochrome P450-mediated hepatic metabolism may result in the delayed or decreased elimination of nitrazepam. Concurrent alcohol use may increase the CNS depressant action of nitrazepam. Advise patients or their parents or legal guardians in regard to the patient to avoid, or limit, their use of alcohol while receiving nitrazepam pharmacotherapy. A gradual reduction of dosage is recommended before nitrazepam pharmacotherapy is completely discontinued.
