Advertising Survey

We would like your input on how advertising is currently used in the site.

Please take this short survey to help us out.

Hide this message

Loprazolam

  • Loprazolam is for the short-term relief of sleeplessness.
  • It can cause drowsiness and light-headedness which may last into the next day.
  • Do not drink alcohol while you are being treated with loprazolam.

About loprazolam

Type of medicineBenzodiazepine
Used forInsomnia (difficulty sleeping)
Available asTablets

Loprazolam works by affecting the part of the brain that controls emotion and also by relaxing muscles. This reduces anxiety and promotes sleepiness.

Before taking loprazolam

Before taking loprazolam make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have any breathing problems.
  • If you have sleep apnoea syndrome (short periods in your sleep where you stop breathing).
  • If you suffer from liver or kidney problems.
  • If you have myasthenia gravis (a muscle weakening disease) or any other muscle weakness.
  • If you have depression or any other mental health problem.
  • If you suffer from porphyria (a blood disorder).
  • If you have ever had an addiction to alcohol or drugs.
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or to any other medicine.

How to take loprazolam

  • Before beginning treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet.
  • Take loprazolam exactly as directed by your doctor.
  • Loprazolam is usually taken just before bedtime.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Loprazolam is taken for short periods of time only, from a few days up to three weeks. It should not be taken for longer periods of time, as this may lead to your feeling dependent on it. If you have already been taking loprazolam for longer periods of time than this, check with your doctor before stopping taking it. It must be stopped gradually as stopping suddenly can cause unpleasant withdrawal symptoms such as anxiety, tremor and sleeplessness.
  • Do not drink alcohol while you are taking loprazolam. It will increase the drowsiness you feel.
  • If you buy any medicines while you are taking loprazolam, check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take together.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking loprazolam.

Can loprazolam cause problems?

Along with their useful effects, all medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicineWhat can I do if I experience this
Drowsiness, dizziness, feeling light-headed or less alert than normalMake sure you know how you react to loprazolam before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert. Do not drink alcohol
Unsteadiness or muscle weakness, confusion, forgetfulnessLet your doctor know if these are troublesome
HeadacheAsk your pharmacist to recommend a suitable painkiller. If the headache continues, let your doctor know
Feeling sickEat little and often. Stick to simple foods

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store loprazolam

  • Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out-of-date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.

References

Comprehensive patient resources are available at www.patient.co.uk
© EMIS 2010DocID: 990DocRef: dils2885Last Reviewed: 1 Sep 2010Version: 23
Provide feedback