Halcion is the brand name for the drug Triazolam, a potent benzodiazepine that can lead to dependence and addiction. 

Primarily, Halcion is prescribed to treat severe insomnia but should only be used for a short time. 

Read on to discover the effects of Triazolam and the signs of Halcion abuse and addiction. Further on, we advise the steps you can take if you think you have a problem.

What is Halcion?

Halcion is the brand name for the generic drug Triazolam, a benzodiazepine derivative. Triazolam is prescribed to help with severe insomnia and treat jet lag. The drug has a half-life of only 1.5 to 5.5 hours, making it a very potent but short-acting benzodiazepine. (1)

Halcion is a Central Nervous System depressant and sedative of the triazolobenzodiazepine class (2)

Triazolam was patented in 1970 and became available in the United States in 1982. By 2017 it was one of the most popularly prescribed drugs in the US, with more than one million prescriptions being issued. (3,4)

Halcion works on the brain’s GABA receptors, increasing the release of GABA (a calming neurotransmitter) into the brain. This calms brain overactivity and promotes sleepiness. It also acts as an anticonvulsant and in calming mental health disorders related to brain overactivity.

The UK law on Halcion – Triazolam banned by the UK in 1991

The British government banned the sale of Halcion in 1991. Previously, it was the world’s most widely prescribed sleeping pill. 

Whilst Halcion is still legal in the US, the UK banned the drug after finding it showed a much higher incidence of depression and memory loss than other drugs of the same class. There was also widespread concern about its potency and its potential for abuse.

The FDA determined that the US could still prescribe Halcion. The advice for prescribing is that the drug is safe when taken at the lowest dose possible and when taken exactly as prescribed. 

Other countries that followed suit in banning the sale of Triazolam are Brazil, Norway, Argentina, and Denmark.

Triazolam remains an illegal drug in the UK (5,6)

Brand names for Triazolam 

The most common brand name for Triazolam is Halcion in English-speaking countries. Other brand names for Triazolam include: Hypam and Trilam (7)

The Effects of Triazolam

Triazolam affects everyone differently. However, some common adverse effects have been reported. 

Common effects of Halcion include: 

• Sedation 
• Drowsiness 
• Relaxation of muscles
• Dizziness or feeling light-headed
• Somnolence (excessive daytime sleepiness/drowsiness) 
• Impaired co-ordination 

Less common effects of Halcion:

• Euphoria (feeling high and a false sense of well-being) 
• Lingering lethargy
• Muscle cramps
• Memory impairment and memory loss
• Disturbances to vision 
• Confusion
• Depression
• Tachycardia 

Rare side effects of Halcion: 

• Constipation or diarrhoea
• Vivid dreams and nightmares
• Dry mouth
• Weakness
• Tingling, burning or numbness of the extremities and legs
• Alteration in taste 

Although it is a short-acting benzodiazepine to be taken at night, commonly, people feel some residual effects the following day. Whilst these effects usually wear off as the day goes on, they are likely to be more pronounced in the morning. 

Residual effects of Halcion include:

• Daytime sedation
• Amnesia
• Depression
• Reduced cognitive function
• Impaired psychomotor function 
• Lethargy

Some residual effects may impair your ability to drive safely. Halcion may also affect your judgment and balance, making you more prone to falls and accidents. (8,9)

Signs of Halcion abuse

Most people can take Halcion safely for a short period to help them fall asleep. A minority will abuse the drug for its effects.

Because of its potency and ability to lead to addiction, Halcion abuse can lead to overdose and is considered very dangerous.

Signs of triazolam abuse include:

• Taking Triazolam that is not prescribed for you
• Taking Triazolam other than prescribed (i.e. during the day or taking more than prescribed) – Hazardous use
• Mixing Triazolam with alcohol or other drugs – Risky use
• Buying Triazolam from the internet or street dealers
• Using multiple doctors to get additional prescriptions for Halcion
• Stockpiling and binging on it
• Neglect of social life and responsibilities to use Halcion
• Breaking the law

The risks and signs of Halcion abuse include:

• Severe drowsiness
• Slurred speech
• Dilated pupils
• Falling over and accidents
• Lack of co-ordination
• Memory loss
• Functioning whilst under its effects yet not recalling actions (i.e. driving, eating or carrying out tasks)
• Legal issues
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Confusion
• Needing to take more of the drug as tolerance builds
• Social withdrawal
• Impaired breathing
• Seizures
• Risk of overdose and death
• Addiction
• Loss of interest in other activities
• Difficulties in personal relationships
• Difficulties at work or in education 

Am I Addicted to Halcion?

Addiction is a recognised physiological and psychiatric illness. It is progressive and chronic. This means that over any given period, it gets worse. If you are addicted to Halcion, you will be psychologically dependent on the drug and rely on it to feel normal.

Addiction and dependence are two different things, although dependence often coexists with addiction.

You can become dependent on Halcion without having an addiction. This dependence can occur by following a genuine prescription. This is due to the drug being a benzodiazepine derivative. It has the same tolerance and dependence-building properties as other medications in the benzodiazepine class.

You can be dependent on Triazolam without being addicted

If you physically depend on Triazolam but do not have an addiction, you will need to seek medical advice to reduce your dosage safely. You should be able to do this without experiencing cravings for the drug. 

If you are addicted to Halcion, you will struggle to reduce your dosage. Even if you do manage to stop taking the drug, you will be highly susceptible to relapse. 

Most people that suffer from an addiction to a drug struggle to detox themselves. This is because the brain compels them to seek and take drugs. 

Trying to control the very drug you have an addiction to is often impossible. This results in a see-saw effect of trying to reduce and then taking even more to overcome the cravings and discomfort of withdrawing.

Signs of triazolam addiction:

• Repeated attempts to quit or control Halcion
• Much time spent using or recovering from Halcion
• Physical/psychological problems related to use
• Using this drug in larger amounts or for longer periods
• Building a tolerance to the effects of Halcion, resulting in the need to use more or mixing it with drugs or alcohol
• Loss of interest in things previously enjoyed
• Hazardous use of Halcion
• Consequences to personal or social relationships
• Occupational and/or legal problems related to use
• Experiencing cravings 
• Withdrawal if unable to use
• Loss of control around use (10)

Despite suffering negative consequences as a result of Halcion use, someone who is addicted will continue to take the drug.

Mixing Triazolam with alcohol and other drugs

Mixing Halcion with alcohol or other drugs is extremely dangerous and can result in overdose. 

Whilst taking Halcion, you should avoid taking the following: 

• Alcohol
• Sleeping tablets/sedatives
• Benzodiazepines
• Opiates and opioids (including over-the-counter medicines and cough mixtures) 

The above are all central nervous system depressants and will increase the sedative effects of Halcion. 

Always speak to your doctor or pharmacist if unsure what is safe to take with Halcion.

Halcion Withdrawal

Halcion withdrawal can range from mild to severe. The severity of withdrawal you or a loved one experiences will depend on several factors. 

Factors that affect the severity of Halcion withdrawal include: 

• The dosage of Halcion you have been regularly taking
• The duration of your dependence on the drug
• Your biology
• Your general health and age
• Any other coexisting addictions to drugs or alcohol 
• Medications you are prescribed 
• Method of detox 
• Your mental health 

If you have been taking Halcion frequently for a prolonged time, detox can prove challenging, even when conducted correctly. 

Chronic abuse of Halcion will result in the most severe symptoms of withdrawal, 

If you have a Triazolam dependence, you mustn’t stop taking the medication abruptly.

Withdrawal from any benzodiazepine will affect you physically and psychologically.

Physical symptoms of Triazolam withdrawal include:

• Insomnia 
• Muscle ages, pains and cramps
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Restlessness
• Dizziness
• Seizures 
• Tachycardia 
• Increased sweating
• Lethargy
• Reduced appetite
• Poor concentration 
• Restless legs
• Brain fog
• Tremors
• Vivid dreams or nightmares
• Strong Halcion cravings

Psychological symptoms of Triazolam withdrawal include: 

• Severe anxiety
• Panic
• Hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not there)
• Depression
• Delirium
• Confusion 
• Racing thoughts
• Suicidal ideation
• Psychosis
• Worsening of any co-occurring mental health conditions (8,11)

Some symptoms of Halcion withdrawal can be life-threatening. For this reason, you should always consult a healthcare professional for advice on stopping Triazolam safely.

Timeline of Halcion withdrawal 

Depending on how frequently you take Halcion will affect when your timeline of withdrawal starts. Withdrawal symptoms can start as soon as you miss your first regular dose, peaking within the first two weeks of stopping. 

The first two weeks of withdrawal are when symptoms will be at their most severe. Following this, they will then begin to subside.

Chronic abuse of or addiction to Halcion can result in experiencing protracted withdrawal symptoms if not professionally treated. 

Post-Acute Withdrawal Symptoms (PAWS) can come and go for months. This is why it is so important that you seek medical help before attempting to quit Triazolam.

Triazolam PAWS is more likely to occur if you do not undergo a medical detox and rehabilitation programme – they treat both the physical and psychological symptoms of addiction and withdrawal. 

Help with Withdrawal

You should always seek help before attempting a Halcion detox. You can consult your prescriber or call us here at Detox Plus UK for free and confidential advice. 

A full medical detox is recommended if you have a Halcion addiction or heavy dependence. A proper detox will reduce the severity of withdrawal and its duration whilst ensuring your safety. 

A full medical detox for Halcion can be conducted on an inpatient or outpatient basis. However, inpatient is the preferred option as you will receive around-the-clock medical care. 

An inpatient detox for Halcion includes: 

• Approved and prescribed medications to manage the detox process 
• Comprehensive medical and mental health assessment 
• 24/7 care and monitoring delivered by trained medical professionals 
• All meals included 
• Accommodation included
• Light therapies and psychological support
• The opportunity to undertake a bespoke rehabilitation programme
• Aftercare 

Once you have completed your detox, it is highly recommended to undergo rehabilitation. This will reduce Halcion cravings and reduce your risk of relapse.

Treatment options for Triazolam addiction

There are many evidence-based methods of treating Halcion addiction, ranging from traditional talking therapies to comprehensively researched alternative therapies.

If you have an addiction to Triazolam, you can access free or private addiction treatment services.

Free Addiction treatment options for Halcion include:

• Contacting your local drug and alcohol team for treatment and support
• Attending SMART Recovery groups or 12 Step recovery groups and following their recovery programme
• Requesting counselling through your GP
• Being assessed by a medical professional for an outpatient detox/tapering regime
• Referral to mental health services
• Family support groups

Private addiction treatment options for Halcion include:

• Full inpatient medical detox
• Inpatient or outpatient rehab
• Home detox
• Bespoke rehabilitation programmes
• Access to many different evidence-based treatments delivered by qualified professionals
• Full medical and mental health assessment
• Treatment for any co-occurring mental health conditions
• Holistic treatment programmes
• Access to cutting-edge addiction treatments
• Family therapy sessions and support
• Long-term and short-term rehab treatment programmes
• Therapeutic communities
• Comprehensive aftercare programme
• Each treatment and detox tailored to you as an individual
• The latest approved medications

For more information on a bespoke detox and rehabilitation programme for Halcion, call our team of friendly advisors today. We can tailor your treatment to suit your personal preferences and treatment needs. All of our detox and rehab centres are CQC registered. 

Treating the underlying causes and dual diagnosis

Part of the rehabilitation process from Halcion abuse and addiction should include the simultaneous treatment of any co-occurring mental health conditions. 

Some people abuse Halcion to self-medicate mental health symptoms. Others may develop a mental health illness due to abusing the drug.

If you undergo treatment at one of our CQC registered drug rehab facilities, you will receive treatment for any diagnosed dual diagnoses. This will automatically be included in your personalised treatment plan.

In addition to treating co-occurring mental health conditions, you will also undergo professional therapy to address any factors that contributed to your abuse of Halcion in the first place.

Treating addictions underlying causes and conditions is a vital part of the recovery process.

Frequently asked questions about Halcion (Triazolam)

Are Zolpidem and Halcion the same drug? 

Zolpidem (Ambien) and Halcion (Triazolam) are both used to treat insomnia. However, the two drugs work differently and belong to different drug classes. Whilst Halcion is a benzodiazepine, Zolpedem is classed as a Z drug amd is a sedative and hypnotic. 

How strong is Halcion? 

Where Halcion is still legitimately prescribed, it is often used in dentistry to calm patients and as a pre-med to an operation. Halcion won’t knock you out. Rather it will make you feel calm and sleepy. It is used for conscious sedation. Halcion’s amnesic properties may mean you will not recall events whilst under its influence (12)

How do I stop taking Halcion safely? 

If you are physically dependent on Halcion, the safest way to stop is with a full medical detox. A full medical detox involves approved and prescribed pharmaceutical medications that enable your brain and body to calibrate at a rate that is safe and comfortable. You should not stop taking Halcion suddenly if you have been taking it for a while.

Can Halcion cause addiction?

As a benzodiazepine, tolerance and dependence on Halcion can form within as little as two weeks of daily use. Halcion is very addictive and can cause addiction if abused. This is why it is only recommended for very short-term treatment.

Where can I get Triazolam?

Triazolam is a banned drug in the UK but is still legal in the US. This means a person may import or order the drug from the dark web or abroad. However, to possess or sell Halcion in the UK is still illegal.

Should I attempt Halcion withdrawal at home?

If you want to attempt Halcion withdrawal at home, ensure that you consult your doctor first. Benzodiazepine withdrawal can be extremely hazardous. It is important to get medical advice regarding a safe withdrawal regime.

How long can I take Halcion before becoming addicted?

Everyone’s biological make-up is different. Some people can become addicted to benzodiazepines quicker than others. As a general guideline, a physical tolerance to Halcion can develop within 7 to 14 days of daily use. This means that you may experience some withdrawal symptoms after stopping the drug, especially rebound insomnia. To reduce the chances of experiencing withdrawal symptoms, your doctor will be able to advise of a suitable tapering regime.

If you want to search for a clinic, for you or a loved one, but don’t know where to begin then reach out to us today. 

References:

1. Wishart, David (2006). “Triazolam”. DrugBank. Retrieved 2006-03-23.
2. “Benzodiazepine Names”. non-benzodiazepines. Archived from the original on 2008-12-08. Retrieved 2008-12-29.
3. Shorter, Edward (2005). “B”. A Historical Dictionary of Psychiatry. Oxford University Press. ISBN 9780190292010.
4. “Triazolam – Drug Usage Statistics”. ClinCalc. Retrieved 11 April 2020.
5. European court upholds UK ban on Halcion – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1114898/
6. Britain bans popular sleeping pill Halcion https://apnews.com/article/fee7783ddab47c53d684e47789127d40
7. Triazolam- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Triazolam
8. Triazolam: MedicinePlus drug information https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a684004.html
9. Side effects of Halcion – https://www.rxlist.com/halcion-side-effects-drug-center.htm
10. DSM-5 Criteria for Substance Use Disorders: Recommendations and Rationale – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3767415/
11. Detoxification for Triazolam dependence – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1315343/
12. Why Dentists Are Using Halcion in Sedation Dentistry – https://www.4dental.com/dentists-using-halcion-sedation-dentistry/