Halcion (Triazolam): Uses, Side Effects, Dosage, & More

What Is Halcion?

Halcion, with the active ingredient triazolam, is an FDA-approved medication for insomnia. Halcion is available as a generic medication and as the brand name of Halcion. This medication is a benzodiazepine medication.¹ These medications depress the central nervous system, leading to a calming effect on the brain. Halcion is FDA-approved for the treatment of insomnia. FDA approval means the medication has undergone rigorous testing by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to demonstrate its effectiveness and safety for a particular use.

How Does Halcion Work?

Halcion works by providing a calming effect on the brain. It does this by increasing a chemical called gamma-aminobutyric acid type A (GABA-A) in the brain.¹ By increasing this chemical, the activity of the brain is decreased. This can lead to sleepiness, helping those who have trouble with insomnia.

What Is Halcion Used to Treat?

Halcion is FDA-approved for the treatment of short-term insomnia. This medication is only recommended for short-term use, usually seven to ten days. Halcion has also been used off-label for sedation for dental procedures.² Off-label means the medication is being used for a condition not approved by the FDA. A provider may choose to use a medication off-label if they believe, in their expert opinion, that the medication may still benefit an individual. 

How Effective Is Halcion?

Halcion has been shown to be effective in treating insomnia in multiple studies.^{1, 3, 4} It is effective in helping individuals fall asleep, stay asleep, and feel restful in the morning. Effectiveness, however, will vary from person to person based on individual factors.

How Long Does Halcion Last?

Halcion is one of the shortest-lasting benzodiazepines available in the United States. It lasts for approximately 7-8 hours for most people. Because of this, it is important to take the medication only if you are able to stay asleep or in bed for this duration.

How Long Does it Take for Halcion to Work?

When taking the medication, the effects can generally be noticed within one hour.⁵ However, it may take time to adjust to the medication. If insomnia has not improved after 7-10 days, a different medication may be needed.

How Long Do I Need to Keep Taking Halcion?

The duration of Halcion treatment varies depending on the individual circumstances and severity of symptoms. Typically, Halcion is prescribed for short-term use, usually seven to ten days.¹ However, your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate duration of treatment based on your specific needs, response to the medication, and underlying health conditions.

Common Side Effects of Halcion

Halcion can cause side effects similar to other benzodiazepines, which can vary from person to person. The most common side effects are mild and often resolve over time. However, some side effects may be persistent or serious, requiring medical care. Taking Halcion as directed by your healthcare provider can lower the risk of developing side effects.

Common side effects of Halcion include:¹

• Drowsiness
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Light-headedness
• Nausea
• Vomiting

*All medications, including Halcion, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Serious Side Effects of Halcion

Serious side effects can occur when taking Halcion. These may include allergic reactions, breathing problems, or behavioral changes. Serious side effects are more likely if you take more of the medication than prescribed. If severe symptoms occur, immediate medical attention is necessary to avoid serious complications.

Serious side effects of Halcion include:¹

• Aggressiveness
• Hallucinations
• Confusion
• Difficulty breathing
• Swelling of the face, mouth, or throat
• Sedation
• Coma
• Seizure

*All medications, including Halcion, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

What Are The Long-term Effects of Taking Halcion?

Taking Halcion for a duration longer than recommended can lead to dependence or tolerance. Dependence means the medication is required in order to sleep or function. Tolerance means higher doses of the medication are needed to achieve the same effect.

Halcion Warnings & Precautions

Before taking Halcion, it’s essential to be aware of the warnings and precautions associated with its use. Halcion should only be taken when prescribed by a healthcare provider after discussing your medical conditions, allergies, and medications you are currently taking. Being aware of the potential complications with Halcion can help identify these problems early on and address them to prevent worsening outcomes.

Warnings and precautions for Halcion include:¹

• Avoid Halcion if you use opioids: Using benzodiazepines, such as Halcion, with opioids can result in significant sedation, leading to coma or death.
• Risk of addiction or misuse: Halcion comes with the risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction. Individuals with a history of addiction may need to avoid using Halcion.
• Dependence and withdrawal: Taking Halcion for an extended period of time can lead to dependence, as well as withdrawal symptoms, when the medication is stopped. A gradual tapering of the medication can reduce the risk of withdrawal symptoms.
• Persistent or worsening insomnia: Some individuals may experience continued or worsening insomnia when taking Halcion. This may indicate an untreated underlying psychiatric disorder.
• Dangerous behavioral changes: Halcion has been reported to cause dangerous behaviors when under the effects of Halcion. This includes driving, preparing/eating food, and more while asleep or not fully awake.
• Mental health changes: Halcion can lead to increased anxiety or abnormal thinking and behavior, including aggression, agitation, and hallucinations.
• Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery: Individuals should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery when taking Halcion due to its sedation effects.
• Avoid Halcion if you are diagnosed with depression: Benzodiazepines, such as Halcion, can worsen depression. Individuals with depression should be closely monitored when taking Halcion.
• Pregnancy: Using Halcion late in pregnancy can lead to problems for the newborn, such as sedation and withdrawal symptoms. The withdrawal symptoms may include irritability, tremors, and difficulty with feeding.
• Avoid Halcion if you have breathing difficulties: Halcion can worsen breathing function and should be avoided in individuals with breathing difficulties.

There may be additional warnings or precautions with this medication. Talk with your healthcare provider about all the risks before you start taking this medication.

Drug Interactions With Halcion

Halcion can interact with various medications, substances, foods, and herbs. This may lead to an increased risk of harmful effects. Some substances may increase the risk of breathing problems, while others may increase the sedative effects caused by Halcion. If interactions occur, seek immediate medical care to address potential complications.

 Eight substances you should avoid while taking Halcion include:¹

• Antifungal medications: Some antifungal medications, such as ketoconazole and itraconazole, can increase the level of Halcion in the body, increasing the risk of side effects.
• Antiviral medications: Some antiviral medications can increase the level of Halcion in the body, leading to an increased risk of side effects. Examples include ritonavir, indinavir, and lopinavir.
• Antibiotics: Some antibiotics may increase the level of Halcion in the body, increasing the risk for side effects. These antibiotics include erythromycin and clarithromycin.
• Antacid medications: Cimetidine and ranitidine, two antacid medications, can increase the level of Halcion in the body, leading to an increased risk of side effects.
• Opioids: Taking opioids and Halcion together can increase the risk of breathing problems.
• Alcohol: Taking alcohol with Halcion can increase the sedative effects caused by Halcion.
• Oral contraceptives: Taking Halcion with oral contraceptives can increase the level of Halcion in the body, leading to an increased risk of side effects.
• Grapefruit juice: Taking grapefruit juice with Halcion can increase the level of Halcion in the body, leading to an increased risk of side effects.

This is not a comprehensive list of the possible interactions with Halcion. You should talk with your healthcare provider and your pharmacist about all prescription and over-the-counter medications, herbs, and supplements you take before starting Halcion.

Halcion Dosages for FDA-Approved Treatment

Halcion is available in different dosages to meet individual needs. The required dose may differ based on several factors, including the individual’s age, medical history, and medical disorder being treated. When treating insomnia, Halcion is only approved for adults.

Halcion Forms & Strengths

Halcion is only available as immediate-release tablets. Delayed-release or extended-release formulations are not available for this medication. This is because the medication is used to treat insomnia, for which effects of the medication are not desired for longer than 8 hours. Halcion is available in different strengths to meet individual needs. The choice of the strength of medication used is based on several factors, including the individual’s age, response to the medication, and underlying health conditions.

Halcion is available in the following forms and strengths:^{1, 5}

• 0.125 mg oral tablet
• 0.25 mg oral tablet

It is also available as generic triazolam in these strengths.

Halcion Dosages for Adults With Insomnia

The dosages for treating insomnia in adults may vary depending on individual responses to the medication. The medication will be most effective and less likely to cause side effects when taken within 30 minutes of bedtime.

Here is Halcion dosage information for insomnia in adults:^{1, 5}

• Typical starting dosage: The initial starting dosage is 0.125 mg or 0.25 mg taken at bedtime.
• Dosage increases: The medication may be increased cautiously based on your response to the medication.
• Maximum dosage: The maximum dosage is typically 0.5 mg at bedtime.

How Should I Take Halcion?

Halcion should always be taken as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Halcion comes as a tablet that should be swallowed whole and without food.⁷ The medication should be taken at bedtime and only if you will remain asleep or in bed for 7 to 8 hours after taking the medication. Halcion is usually only taken for 7 to 10 days.

What Happens If I Miss a Dose of Halcion?

This medication should only be taken at bedtime. If you miss a dose, you may take the medication, but only if you will remain in bed for 7 to 8 hours after taking it.

Can You Overdose on Halcion?

Overdose can occur when taking Halcion, especially if taken in larger amounts than prescribed or mixed with other substances. There are many potential symptoms of an overdose. These symptoms may include confusion, seizures, difficulty breathing, coma, or death.¹

What Should You Do If You Take Too Much Halcion?

If an overdose of Halcion occurs, you can call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222. However, seek immediate medical attention by calling 911 if severe symptoms occur, such as seizures, coma, or difficulty breathing.

How to Get a Prescription for Halcion

Halcion is a controlled substance that is only available through a prescription by a licensed healthcare provider. This may include psychiatrists, primary care physicians, or sleep specialists. Before prescribing Halcion, your healthcare provider will evaluate your medical condition, current medications, and potential risk factors to determine if Halcion is a good option for you.

There are several ways to find a psychatirst. You can start by asking your primary care physician for a referral to a psychiatrist. You may also check with your health insurance provider, who may provide a list of in-network psychiatrists. Additionally, online directories and mental health organizations often have resources to help you locate a psychiatrist either in your area or available through telehealth.

FAQs About Halcion

Below are some frequently asked questions about Halcion and its uses.

Is Halcion the Same as Ambien?

Halcion and Ambien are both prescription medications used for the treatment of insomnia, but they are different types of medication. Halcion (triazolam) is a benzodiazepine, while Ambien (zolpidem) is a non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotic.⁷ Both of these medications work in similar ways, affecting GABA in the brain and leading to an overall calming effect.

Is Halcion a Strong Sedative?

Halcion is considered a strong sedative. Halcion is a benzodiazepine which can have potent sedative effects. Because the effect of Halcion can be noticed within 30-60 minutes after taking the medication, it is a strong sedative and can be helpful for sleep. Due to its potency, it is recommended for short-term use only.

Is Halcion Safe for Older Adults?

Halcion can be used safely for older adults. However, older adults may have a reduced ability to remove the drug from the body leading to an increased level in the body. Because of this, older adults may need to be treated with lower doses.

Can Halcion Be Used During Pregnancy or While Breastfeeding?

Halcion is typically not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to its effects on newborns and infants, including sedation, poor feeding, and poor weight gain. The decision to take Halcion during pregnancy or while breastfeeding should be made between you and your healthcare provider after weighing the risks and benefits.

Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider About Halcion

When considering Halcion, you can be prepared by having a list of questions to ask your doctor, psychiatrist, and therapist. This may include what to expect when taking Halcion, side effects, and medication interactions. If you are looking for a new prescriber to discuss treatments for insomnia, you can consider online psychiatry services. These platforms allow you to conveniently connect with a healthcare provider from a remote location.

Questions to ask your care team about Halcion include:

• How safe is Halcion?
• How long will it take for me to adjust to taking Halcion?
• Am I at risk for more serious symptoms if I am already taking other medications?
• What is the best dosage to ensure fewer side effects?
• Are there any lifestyle changes I should consider while taking Halcion?
• What are the potential risks of long-term use?
• Does my medical history increase the risk of side effects caused by Halcion?
• How often should I have follow-up appointments while taking Halcion?
• What are the alternative treatment options or therapies that I should consider?
• Who should I contact if I develop side effects?