Scottish Drugs Forum
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Drug group - Benzodiazepines
Street name
Moggies
Brand name
Mogadon. (ICN), Remnos. (DDSA), Somnite. (Norgine)
Drug effect
Depressant (downer). Effects last for up to 24 hours
Description
White tablet (5mg, marked with two 'eyes')
Oral suspension (2.5mg/5mL) - Somnite.
Therapeutic use
Insomnia
Street use
Swallowed and injected
Dependency
Yes
Withdrawal
Withdrawal symptoms begin up to 7 days after last dose and may last for months. Symptoms include anxiety, restlessness, tremor, feelings of unreality, distortion of perceptions. There is a risk of seizure following sudden withdrawal.
Long term use
Mental confusion
Memory loss
Depression
Unpredictable or aggressive behaviour
Loss of physical co-ordination
If injected - infection risk, circulatory problems
Overdose risk
Death from overdose is rare, but risks increase if nitrazepam is mixed with other drugs such as opiates, barbiturates or alcohol.
Legal status
Prescription Only Medicine
Class C, Schedule 4 Part I
Illegal to possess without a prescription and to supply to others.
SPECIAL NOTE
Withdrawal from Nitrazepam can be dangerous because of seizure risk. Gradual withdrawal under medical supervision is recommended.