Restoril with antibiotics: interactions and safety
Antibiotic courses are common, short-term and often combined with chronic medications such as Restoril (Temazepam). Most antibiotics do not interfere meaningfully with Temazepam at 7.5mg, 15mg, 22.5mg, 30mg, but a few classes do, and a small number of combinations are best avoided.
Common antibiotic interactions
Macrolides (clarithromycin, erythromycin) and certain antifungals can inhibit hepatic metabolism (CYP3A4) and raise plasma levels of many medications including some Sleep Aids and Hypnotics agents. Rifampicin has the opposite effect, accelerating metabolism. Most penicillins, cephalosporins, fluoroquinolones and tetracyclines have no clinically meaningful interaction with Temazepam at 7.5mg, 15mg, 22.5mg, 30mg.
Practical guidance
According to the prescribing information for Temazepam, an antibiotic course should be reviewed by the prescriber or pharmacist for known interactions before Restoril is co-administered. Adjusted 7.5mg, 15mg, 22.5mg, 30mg dosing or temporary substitution is sometimes preferred for the duration of the antibiotic course.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Restoril during an antibiotic course? ▾
For most common antibiotics, yes. A few classes — notably macrolides and azole antifungals — alter how Temazepam is metabolised and may need a temporary 7.5mg, 15mg, 22.5mg, 30mg adjustment. The prescribing pharmacist should review any new antibiotic against the existing Restoril regimen.
Will antibiotics make Restoril stop working? ▾
Most antibiotics do not affect Restoril efficacy. Rifampicin and a few others can lower Temazepam levels and reduce effect; in those cases the prescriber may adjust the dose during and shortly after the antibiotic course.
More on Restoril
- With alcoholRestoril and alcohol — is it safe to drink?
- With foodShould Restoril be taken with food?
- Side effectsRestoril side effects: common, rare and warning signs
- Dosage guideRestoril dosage guide: how much to take and when
- OnsetHow fast does Restoril start working?
- DurationHow long does Restoril last?
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