NOTE: Persons with CFIDS generally do not tolerate standard, “usual” dosages of many medications. It is advisable to start with lower than usual dosages and increase as tolerated until a therapeutic range is reached, not to exceed FDA recommended dosage.
MEDICATION CHEMICAL NAME	MEDICATION BRAND NAME	SIDE EFFECTS	COMMENTS
Alprazolam	Xanax	Drowsiness; abdominal discomforts; abnormal muscle movement	Drug dependence possible; many drug and food interactions
Clonazepam	Klonopin	Drowsiness; coordination problems;	Multiple severe potential drug interactions
Temazepam	Restoril	Drowsiness; dizziness; fatigue; headache	Drug dependence possible;
Diphenhydramine	Benadryl (antihistamine)	Sleepiness; dry mouth; nausea; coordination problems	Potential drug interactions
Zolpidem tartrate	Ambien	Daytime drowsiness; dizziness; headache; indigestion; may cause amnesia or confusion	Works rapidly; potential drug interactions; potentially habit-forming
Flurazepam HCl	Dalmane	Dizziness; drowsiness; falling; may increase depression	Drug dependence possible; use caution if patient is depressed
Quazepam	Doral	Drowsiness; headache	Potentially addictive; use caution if patient depressed
Estazolam	ProSom	Drowsiness; coordination problems; headache	Potentially addictive; potential drug interactions