Quazepam

Quazepam is commonly used for treating insomnia. It is part of a group of medications called benzodiazepines, which work by enhancing the effects of a naturally calming chemical in the brain. Quazepam is available by prescription and comes in the form of a tablet that is usually taken at bedtime. Possible side effects include daytime drowsiness, fatigue, dizziness, and headaches.

 

What Is Quazepam?

Quazepam (Doral®) is a prescription sleep medication approved for the treatment of insomnia. It is generally recommended for short-term use, although occasional long-term use may be appropriate.
 
(Click What Is Quazepam Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Quazepam?

Quazepam is currently made by Questcor Pharmaceuticals.
 

How Does Quazepam Work?

Quazepam is part of a group of medications known as benzodiazepines (sometimes called "benzos" for short). Benzodiazepines have a variety of different effects on the body, including:
 
  • Stopping seizures
  • Relaxing muscles
  • Causing sleepiness
  • Reducing anxiety
  • Impairing short-term memory.
     
All benzodiazepines can have these effects to some degree, depending on the specific medication and the dose. They work in the brain by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a chemical that is naturally calming. GABA can slow down or stop certain nerve signals in the brain. This is why quazepam and other benzodiazepines are known as mild tranquilizers, sedatives, or central nervous system depressants (CNS depressants).
 
(Quazepam Continued: Page 2)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;