What Is Flurazepam? Uses, Dosage, and What You Need to Know in 2026

Flurazepam is a prescription sleep medication that has been used to treat insomnia since the late 1960s. Originally sold under the brand name Dalmane — which has since been discontinued — it remains available today as a generic medication, though it can be difficult to find at pharmacies. This guide covers everything you need to know about flurazepam: what it is, what it treats, how it's dosed, and what to be aware of as a patient in 2026.

What Is Flurazepam?

Flurazepam is a long-acting benzodiazepine — a class of medications that work by enhancing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, producing a calming and sedative effect. It belongs to the same family of drugs as diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), and alprazolam (Xanax), though its specific properties make it uniquely suited for sleep.

What distinguishes flurazepam from most other sleep medications is its extremely long-acting active metabolite — N-desalkylflurazepam — which can remain in the bloodstream for 40–114 hours after a single dose. This makes it one of the longest-acting sleep aids available, and it means the effects (both therapeutic and side effects) can persist well into the following day.

Brand Name vs. Generic

Flurazepam was originally developed by Roche Pharmaceuticals and marketed as Dalmane starting in 1968. It was also sold as Dalmadorm in some countries. The brand name Dalmane has been discontinued in the United States. Today, only generic flurazepam hydrochloride is available, manufactured exclusively by Chartwell Rx as of late 2025.

What Is Flurazepam Used For?

Flurazepam has one FDA-approved indication:

Mild to moderate insomnia: Including difficulty falling asleep, frequent nighttime awakenings, and early morning awakening. It can be used in patients with recurring insomnia or for those who need restful sleep during acute medical situations.

While short-term use is generally recommended (insomnia is often transient), sleep laboratory studies have demonstrated effectiveness for at least 28 consecutive nights. Off-label, flurazepam is occasionally used for anxiety or preoperative sedation, but these are not FDA-approved indications.

How Is Flurazepam Taken?

Flurazepam comes as oral capsules in two strengths:

15 mg capsules (typically for elderly/debilitated patients or those sensitive to sedatives)

30 mg capsules (standard adult dose)

Key dosing rules:

Take it only immediately before bedtime, when you're ready to sleep for a full 7–8 hours.

Do not take it if you cannot get a full night's sleep — residual sedation increases fall risk.

Elderly patients should start with 15 mg to minimize the risk of oversedation, dizziness, and falls.

Not approved for patients under 18 years of age.

Is Flurazepam a Controlled Substance?

Yes. Flurazepam is a DEA Schedule IV controlled substance. Schedule IV drugs have an accepted medical use but carry a risk of abuse and physical or psychological dependence. As a result:

A valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider with DEA authority is required.

Federal law allows up to 5 refills within 6 months from the prescription date.

Total annual production is capped by the DEA, which contributes to supply limitations.

Who Should NOT Take Flurazepam?

Pregnant women — contraindicated; risk of fetal harm and neonatal withdrawal

Patients with known allergy to benzodiazepines

Children and adolescents under 18 — not FDA-approved

Patients currently taking sodium oxybate (GHB) — contraindicated combination

Patients with severe uncontrolled sleep apnea — can worsen breathing during sleep

Is Flurazepam Available in 2026?

Yes, but with caveats. Flurazepam is technically available — Chartwell Rx began manufacturing it again in November 2023 after a four-year gap. However, it remains on the ASHP drug shortage list, and not all pharmacies stock it. If your local pharmacy doesn't carry it, you may need to try independent pharmacies or ask for a special order.

medfinder can help you locate pharmacies near you with flurazepam in stock. To understand how it works in the body, read How Does Flurazepam Work? Mechanism of Action Explained.