Triazolam, also known as Halcion, is prescribed for short-term use to treat insomnia. Part of the medication class known as benzodiazepines, it works by slowing or depressing the central nervous system to allow a person to fall asleep and stay sleeping.
Triazolam is a triazolobenzodiazepine, the shortest acting of the benzodiazepine class of medications. This short-acting drug, commonly marketed under the name Halcion, is quickly absorbed in the body and eliminated within two to five hours. It is normally prescribed to patients where insomnia interrupts normal daily functions.
Like other benzodiazepines, triazolam works by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter in the brain that produces a calming effect. Because of its short half-life – the estimated time it takes for the medication’s concentration in the body to reduce by half – triazolam may not cause residual drowsiness the day after taking it like other benzodiazepines would. Triazolam should only be taken for a brief period (7-10 days) after which it might not help with insomnia as readily as it did at first use.
Because of the risk of dependency, triazolam is normally prescribed only after less potent insomnia treatments have been found ineffective. Like other benzodiazepines, triazolam can cause dependency and withdrawal symptoms if used for a prolonged period or in higher than prescribed doses.
Triazolam is federally classified as a Schedule IV drug under the Controlled Substances Act because it has the potential for abuse and addiction. It should be used with caution by those with a history of depression, substance abuse or certain medical conditions like liver disease.
Triazolam is prescribed for short-term treatment of severe insomnia. The rapid onset of the medication helps patients fall asleep quickly and have fewer waking moments once asleep.
The chemical name of triazolam is 8-chloro-6-(2-chlorophenyl)-1-methyl-4H-[1,2,4]triazolo[4,3-a][1,4]benzodiazepine. The empirical formula is C17H12Cl2N4
The common dosage of triazolam is 0.25mg taken just before bedtime. Because of its potency, some patients, such as elderly patients or those with adverse medical conditions, may be started at a lower dose of 0.125mg to reduce the risk of side effects such as dizziness, over-sedation and impaired coordination.
Side effects of triazolam vary and can be temporary but you should seek medical attention if your reaction is severe or does not go away.
Common Side Effects
Less Common Side Effects
Patients should be closely monitored with taking triazolam, especially if it is their first time taking the medication. Notify a medical professional immediately if you are experiencing unusual reactions to triazolam.
When someone develops an addiction to triazolam, they will experience both physical and psychological symptoms. Recognizing the signs of addiction can help in early intervention and seeking help. Some key indicators of triazolam addiction include:
If you or someone you know is showing signs of triazolam abuse, it is important to seek advice from a trained counselor. Addiction to benzodiazepines can have serious effects on a person’s health and well-being.
Triazolam is only meant for short-term use, and, like most benzodiazepines, chronic use can be dangerous and even life-threatening. Dependence on triazolam happens when a person becomes accustomed to using the medication and no longer feels the effects of it when taken at normal doses. A person can develop tolerance and needs more medication to achieve the same effects.
Dependence also means continued use of a drug even if doing so leads to negative outcomes. A person who is dependent on triazolam may function normally when using the medication but will experience withdrawal symptoms if the medication is stopped.
Treatment for triazolam addiction is a process – one that should be medically supervised and contain support mechanisms to help a person towards recovery.
What Does Triazolam Addiction Treatment Look Like?
Treatment for triazolam addiction begins with a comprehensive assessment before several stages of a structured recovery program start. This process is designed to meet the needs of a specific patient and will vary based on the severity of addiction and a person’s overall health. Each step of treatment is created with the goal of recovery. Here is an overview of what is generally involved in triazolam addiction treatment:
Triazolam Detox
Triazolam addiction treatment usually begins with detoxification – a medically supervised process of safely removing a drug from the body. Medication should never be stopped abruptly due to the risk of withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal from benzodiazepines like triazolam can be dangerous and even life threatening so it is important that detox is done under strict medical guidance. Detox normally includes tapering or decreasing the use of a medication over time. In some cases, a long-acting benzodiazepine can be used to help manage symptoms while triazolam is removed from the body.
Inpatient and Outpatient Treatment
Once detox has been successfully completed, a patient will continue their care either with an inpatient or outpatient program. Both options should be carefully considered before choosing the best path for you.
If you or a loved one is struggling with triazolam use, help is available. Please reach out to one of our compassionate admissions team members to learn about treatment options.
This website offers educational information and self-help tools for your personal use. However, everyone’s health needs are unique. To make the best and safest decisions for yourself, please consult with a doctor or licensed professional.
