What is Flumazenil? Uses, warnings & side effects

What is Flumazenil? Uses, warnings & side effects

Updated May 14, 2025 • Published Dec 30, 2020

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Flumazenil overview

BRAND NAMES:

Flumazenil Novaplus

Generic Names:

Flumazenil

Uses:

Treats drowsiness caused by sedative medicines called benzodiazepines, following surgery or drug overdose.

Therapeutic Classes:

Antidote

Forms:

Injectable

How it’s taken:

By injection

What is Flumazenil used for?

What form(s) does Flumazenil come in?

Injectable

What are common Flumazenil dosages?

Vial 5ML of 0.5MG/5ML
Vial 10ML of 1MG/10ML

Flumazenil images - What does Flumazenil look like?

Flumazenil
10ml of 1mg/10ml vial
Flumazenil
5ml of 0.5mg/5ml vial

How to take Flumazenil

Injection routeYour doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.
Injection routeA nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.
Injection routeYour doctor will prescribe your dose and schedule. This medicine is given through a needle placed in a vein.
Injection routeA nurse or other health provider will give you this medicine.

What to do if you miss a dose of Flumazenil

Flumazenil contraindications - Who shouldn't take Flumazenil?

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to flumazenil, or to any benzodiazepines such as Halcion®, Versed®, or Xanax®. Do not use this medicine if you are using benzodiazepines to treat a long-term condition. You should not use this medicine if you have taken an excess dose of medicine for depression.

Flumazenil warnings

This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
Make sure your doctor knows if you have had a head injury, panic disorder, or liver disease.
Make sure your doctor knows if you are using any benzodiazepine medicine to treat seizures, epilepsy, or any other medical condition.
Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breast feeding.

Flumazenil interactions & what to avoid when taking Flumazenil

Make sure your doctor knows if you are using medicine for depression such as amitriptyline, nortriptyline, imipramine, Norpramin®, or Vivactil®.
Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.
Make sure your doctor knows if you have had a head injury, panic disorder, or liver disease.
This medicine may make you dizzy or drowsy. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.

Flumazenil side effects - How does Flumazenil make you feel?

Serious Side Effects

Chest pain, fast or uneven heartbeat.
Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
Seizures
Problems with speech, hearing or vision.

Less Serious Side Effects

Red skin rash, pain, itching, burning, swelling or a lump under your skin where the needle is placed.
Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest.
Anxiety, nervousness, tremors, dry mouth, or sweating.
Nausea, vomiting, or hiccups.