How do you take Nitrazepam?

Adults usually take one 5mg tablet about 30 minutes before bedtime. In some cases, the doctor may increase it to 10mg. Swallow with water, and you can take it with or without food. Do not take it for more than 2 to 4 weeks unless your doctor specifically tells you to.

What are the side effects of Nitrazepam?

Feeling very drowsy or groggy the next morning, dizziness, confusion, feeling weak or tired, slight headache

Who should not take Nitrazepam?

People allergic to nitrazepam or similar drugs like diazepam, people with severe breathing problems or sleep apnea, people with severe liver disease, people with a condition called myasthenia gravis (extreme muscle weakness), anyone with a history of drug or alcohol addiction, and elderly people should use it with extra caution.

Prescription

Benzodiazepine (sleeping pill/sedative)

Nitrazepam

Q: What is Nitrazepam used for?

Difficulty sleeping (insomnia), severe anxiety that prevents sleep

Last reviewed July 2026

Who is this for?

For adults (18+). Standard adult dosing applies: see the How to Take tab for full instructions.

What is this drug?

Nitrazepam is a sleeping pill that works by calming the brain and nervous system, helping you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

How it works

Binds to benzodiazepine receptors on GABA-A channels in the central nervous system, enhancing inhibitory GABAergic neurotransmission and producing sedative, anxiolytic, and hypnotic effects.

What is it used for?

Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)severe anxiety that prevents sleep

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Anxiety & Sleep Problems

Prescription Required

You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.

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What to watch out for

This is a controlled drug, so only buy it with a valid prescription from a licensed pharmacy, never from roadside sellers or open markets. Nitrazepam can become addictive if used for too long, so follow your doctor's plan strictly and do not increase the dose on your own. Do not drive, operate machines, or do anything requiring alertness the morning after taking it as you may still feel drowsy.

Common Side Effects

Feeling very drowsy or groggy the next morning
dizziness
confusion
feeling weak or tired
slight headache

Serious Side Effects

Difficulty breathing or very shallow breathing: go to the hospital immediately. Memory loss or behaving strangely without remembering it. Severe allergic reaction such as swelling of the face
lips
or throat.

Drug Interactions

Do not drink alcohol while taking nitrazepam as combining them can cause dangerously deep sleep or breathing problems. Be careful with other sleeping pills, antihistamines (like Piriton), or strong painkillers like tramadol as they can increase drowsiness dangerously. Tell your doctor if you are taking any medication for depression or mental health conditions.

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Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Warning

Nitrazepam is not safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding as it can harm the baby or pass into breast milk. Do not take it if you are pregnant, planning to get pregnant, or nursing.

Who Should NOT Take This

People allergic to nitrazepam or similar drugs like diazepam
people with severe breathing problems or sleep apnea
people with severe liver disease
people with a condition called myasthenia gravis (extreme muscle weakness)
anyone with a history of drug or alcohol addiction
and elderly people should use it with extra caution.

How to Store

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid storing near windows or in your car. Keep it far away from children as even one tablet can be dangerous for a small child.

For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.