Monograph: |
Lormetazepam
A white crystalline powder. Practically insoluble in water; soluble in alcohol and in methyl alcohol. Protect from light.
Dependence and Withdrawal
As for Diazepam.
For the purpose of withdrawal regimens, 0.5 to 1 mg of lormetazepam is considered equivalent to about 5 mg of diazepam.
Adverse Effects, Treatment, and Precautions
As for Diazepam.
Interactions
As for Diazepam.
Pharmacokinetics
Lormetazepam is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and metabolised to the inactive glucuronide. The terminal half-life is reported to be about 11 hours.
A brief review of the pharmacokinetics of lormetazepam.
Uses and Administration
Lormetazepam is a short-acting benzodiazepine with general properties similar to those of diazepam. It is mainly used as a hypnotic in the short-term management of insomnia in usual doses of 0.5 to 1.5 mg by mouth at night. A dose of 500 micrograms is recommended for elderly or debilitated patients. Lormetazepam is also used in some countries for premedication.
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