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Prosom

What is sleep?

There are over 20 definitions of "sleep" in several dictionaries. The first, a verb, seems most appropriate:

to take the rest afforded by a suspension of voluntary bodily functions and the natural suspension, complete or partial, of consciousness; cease being awake.

Physiologically, sleep is a complex process of restoration and renewal for the body. Scientists still do not have a definitive explanation for why humans have a need for sleep. We do know that sleep is not a passive process or "switching off" of body functions; sleep is believed to be important in many physiologic processes including the processing of experiences and the consolidation of memories. It is also clear that sleep is essential, not only for humans but for almost all animals.

The importance of sleep is underscored by the symptoms experienced by those suffering from sleep problems. People s...

Prosom

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ProSom™
(estazolam) Tablets

DRUG DESCRIPTION

ProSom (estazolam), a triazolobenzodiazepine derivative, is an oral hypnotic agent. Estazolam occurs as a fine, white, odorless powder that is soluble in alcohol and practically insoluble in water. The chemical name for estazolam is 8-chloro-6-phenyl-4Hs-triazolo[4,3-α] [1,4]benzodiazepine. The empirical formula is C16H11ClN4. The structural formula is represented as follows:

ProSom (estazolam) structural formula illustration

ProSom (estazolam) tablets are scored and contain either 1 mg or 2 mg of estazolam.

Inactive Ingredients: colloidal silicon dioxide, lactose, povidone, stearic acid, and sodium starch glycolate. In addition, the 2 mg tablets contain FD&C Red No. 40.

What are the possible side effects of estazolam (Prosom)?

Estazolam may cause a severe allergic reaction. Stop taking estazolam and get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using estazolam and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

  • weak or shallow breathing;
  • fast or pounding heartbeats;
  • confusion, slurred speech, unusual thoughts or behavior;
  • hallucinations, agitation, aggression;
  • ...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Prosom »

What are the precautions when taking estazolam (Prosom)?

Before taking estazolam, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to similar medications (e.g., lorazepam, diazepam); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: liver disease, kidney disease, mental/mood problems (e.g., depression, panic disorder), lung problems (e.g., pulmonary insufficiency, sleep apnea), seizures, personal or family history of regular use/abuse of drugs/alcohol/other substances.

This drug may make you dizzy or drowsy or cause temporary blurred vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that...

Read All Potential Precautions of Prosom »

Last reviewed on RxList: 6/19/2008
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.

Prosom - User Reviews

Prosom User Reviews

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Here is a collection of user reviews for the medication Prosom sorted by most helpful. Patient Discussions FAQs

Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration

 

You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.


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