Doral is in a group of drugs called benzodiazepines (ben-zoe-dye-AZE-eh-peens). Doral affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause sleep problems (insomnia).

Doral is used to treat insomnia symptoms, such as trouble falling or staying asleep.

Doral may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

Most important:Doral may cause a severe allergic reaction. Stop taking Doral and get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Take Doral only when you are getting ready for several hours of sleep. You may fall asleep very quickly after taking the medicine.

Some people using this medicine have engaged in activity such as driving, eating, or making phone calls and later having no memory of the activity. If this happens to you, stop taking Doral and talk with your doctor about another treatment for your sleep disorder.

Do not use this medication if you are allergic to Doral or to other benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam (Xanax), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), clorazepate (Tranxene), diazepam (Valium), lorazepam (Ativan), midazolam (Versed), temazepam (Restoril), or triazolam (Halcion). This medication can cause birth defects in an unborn baby, or withdrawal symptoms in a newborn. Do not use Doral if you are pregnant.

Before taking Doral, tell your doctor if you have any breathing problems, kidney or liver disease, or a history of depression, mental illness, suicidal thoughts, or addiction to drugs or alcohol.

Doral may be habit-forming and should be used only by the person it was prescribed for. Doral should never be shared with another person, especially someone who has a history of drug abuse or addiction. Keep the medication in a secure place where others cannot get to it. Doral should be used for only a short time to treat insomnia. After 7 to 10 nights of use, talk with your doctor about whether or not you should keep taking Doral.