Effects are similar to opioids. Acute intoxication has been shown to produce an increase in sleepiness, decrease in wakefulness, and sometimes even daytime sleepiness.

Chronic use can lead to the development of tolerance to these effects, rebound insomnia, and potentially serious withdrawal effects, especially for those with breathing-related issues, such as obstructive sleep apnea and hypoventilation.

Parasomnias have been associated to higher doses of benzodiazepine receptor agonist medications and other sedative drugs.