Restoril and grapefruit: a real interaction?
Grapefruit is famous as the juice that interacts with medications, and the warning is real for a number of drugs. Whether it matters specifically for Restoril (Temazepam) at 7.5mg, 15mg, 22.5mg, 30mg depends on whether the active ingredient Temazepam is metabolised by CYP3A4 in the gut wall and how much that pathway contributes to first-pass metabolism.
The CYP3A4 mechanism
Grapefruit (and its juice) inhibits CYP3A4 enzymes in the gut wall, increasing the absorbed dose of medications metabolised by that enzyme. For drugs in the Sleep Aids and Hypnotics class that go through CYP3A4 first-pass metabolism, regular grapefruit consumption can raise plasma levels of Temazepam by a clinically meaningful margin and amplify side effects.
What to do with Restoril
According to the prescribing information for Temazepam, if grapefruit is flagged as an interaction, the safest practice is to avoid grapefruit entirely or to discuss timing with the prescriber. Temazepam binds the benzodiazepine site of the GABA-A receptor and allosterically enhances inhibitory chloride conductance. A small occasional serving may be tolerable; daily large servings around the time of Restoril dosing are not recommended at 7.5mg, 15mg, 22.5mg, 30mg.
Frequently asked questions
Can I eat grapefruit while on Restoril? ▾
For some Sleep Aids and Hypnotics medications, grapefruit is best avoided or limited because of CYP3A4 inhibition. Whether Restoril specifically is affected depends on Temazepam; the prescribing information lists this. When in doubt, ask the pharmacist or check the patient leaflet.
How much grapefruit is too much with Restoril? ▾
For drugs where the interaction matters, even modest daily grapefruit intake (one whole grapefruit or one large glass of juice) can shift drug levels noticeably. For Restoril at 7.5mg, 15mg, 22.5mg, 30mg, individual tolerance varies; the cautious choice is to avoid grapefruit if any interaction is mentioned.
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?
The information on this website is provided for reference and educational purposes only. It does not replace consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.