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Temazepam

Street names: Rugby balls, Tems, Jellies

Article by : SpunOut.ie

Brand name: Normison (Wyeth), Euhypnos

Drug effect

Depressant or 'downer'

Drug description

Yellow capsules (10-20mg): oral solution (10mg / 5ml elixir) ; Green soft gelatin capsules (2 - 20mg); White scored tablets (10mg and 20mg)and 'Gelthix' capsules (10 - 30mg).

Therapeutic use

Insomnia

Street use

Injected or swallowed

Dependency

Yes

Withdrawal

Effects of temazepam last for six to ten hours and withdrawal symptoms begin within three days of the last dose. Symptoms may last for months and include anxiety, restlessness, tremors, feelings of unreality and distortion of perceptions. There is a risk of seizure among heavy users following sudden withdrawal.

Long term use

Mental confusion, memory loss, depression, unpredictable or aggressive behaviour and loss of physical co-ordination. If injected - infection risk and circulatory problems (including serious injury to veins).

Overdose risk

Death from overdose is rare but risks increase if temazepam is mixed with other 'downers' like opiates, barbiturates or alcohol.

Risks

Withdrawal from temazepam can be dangerous because of seizure risk. Gradual withdrawal under medical supervision is recommended. 'Gelthix' gel-filled capsules were developed to replace liquid capsules in order to prevent use by injection. If heated the gel turns to liquid and so 'Gelthix' may still be injected. This practice is particularly problematic as the warm liquid frequently returns to gel when reaching the cooler stream. This can result in blocked veins, leading to gangrene and ultimately loss of limbs, fingers or toes.

Back to information on Benzodiazepines.

Content thanks to YouthHealthNE authors.

See the help section for supportive information and contacts details of support organisations.

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