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1: JAMA. 1979 Apr 20;241(16):1692-5.Links

Rebound insomnia. A potential hazard following withdrawal of certain benzodiazepines.

Kales A, Scharf MB, Kales JD, Soldatos CR.

Five benzodiazepine drugs (diazepam, flunitrazepam, flurazepam hydrochloride, nitrazepam, and triazolam) were evaluated separately in 15 sleep laboratory studies. Rebound insomnia, a worsening of sleep compared with baseline, occurred following withdrawal of triazolam, nitrazepam, and flunitrazepam after they had been given in only single, nightly doses for short periods. The rebound insomnia was attributed to the short and intermediate half-lives of these drugs. Diazepam and flurazepam, which have longer half-lives, did not cause rebound insomnia on withdrawal. Rebound insomnia may play a role in the development of hypnotic drug dependence with shorter-acting benzodiazepine drugs.

PMID: 430730 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Patient Drug Information

  • Diazepam (Diazepam Intensol® , Valium® )

    Diazepam is used to relieve anxiety, muscle spasms, and seizures and to control agitation caused by alcohol withdrawal.

  • Flurazepam (Dalmane® )

    Flurazepam is used to treat insomnia (difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep). Flurazepam is in a class of medications called benzodiazepines. It works by slowing activity in the brain to allow sleep.

  • Triazolam (Halcion® )

    Triazolam is used on a short-term basis to treat insomnia (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep). Triazolam is in a class of medications called benzodiazepines. It works by slowing activity in the brain to allow s...

  • Source: AHFS Consumer Medication Information