Flunitrazepam

General information

Flunitrazepam has acquired a reputation for toxicity, abuse potential [ ] and associated forensic problems [ ], including being implicated in sexual assault (“date rape”) [ ]. It has been withdrawn from general availability in various countries, including the USA, Australia, and New Zealand, and it is considered to be a narcotic in various European countries. It has a rapid onset of action but a long half-life. The earlier recommended hypnotic dose (1–2 mg) is excessive, and like some other benzodiazepines, such as triazolam, flunitrazepam is safer in a smaller dose [ ]. Like triazolam, it has been associated with nocturnal binge eating [ ]. Although its outpatient use in individuals who are susceptible to abuse is hazardous, intravenous flunitrazepam is useful for alcohol withdrawal delirium, but assisted ventilation should be available.

Organs and systems