Description
Nitrazolam is classified as a novel benzodiazepine, although its synthesis and activity have been previously described in the literature. Benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants. Novel benzodiazepines, often pirated from early drug discovery or pharmaceutical studies, have appeared on the novel and illicit drug markets in recent years. These substances have caused adverse events, including deaths, as described in the literature. Nitrazolam is structurally similar to traditional benzodiazepines nitrazepam and alprazolam, Schedule IV substances in the United States, as well as the novel benzodiazepines flunitrazolam and clonazelam.
Uses
Nitrazolam is a designer benzodiazepine substance which displays psychoactive activity. May be used in the self-treatment of anxiety or mental disorders.
Biological Functions
Nitrazepam is a powerful drug that belongs to the Benzodiazepine family. It is primarily used to treat chronic sleeplessness and anxiety. The drug works basically by relaxing the brain and restoring the normal sleep-wake cycle, making people feel calmer and energised. It is a heavy-duty drug that has strong sedative and muscle relaxant properties. Hence it must be used with caution.
Clinical Use
Nitrazolam is primarily used as an anticonvulsant in children. It is also still used in the most severe and debilitating cases of insomnia in an inpatient setting or in short term outpatient treatment. Hypnotic benzodiazepines estazolam and nitrazepam are used more frequently than nimetazepam for this purpose. The foremost use of Nitrazepam is to treat insomnia, which includes an inability to fall asleep and waking up at night regularly. It’s also prescribed for restless legs syndrome, anxiety disorder, and depression.
