Triazolam (Halcion) Tips from Pharmacists

• Minimize drug exposure and take triazolam only as needed for the shortest time possible.

• Take triazolam on an empty stomach. Taking this medicine with food can affect its absorption, causing it to work less well.

• Do not drink alcohol while on this medicine. Alcohol can make the side effects of triazolam worse and increase your risk of respiratory depression and sedation.

• Avoid rapid dosage reduction or discontinuation after taking triazolam for some time. This can lead to potentially serious withdrawal symptoms, including a protracted withdrawal syndrome with withdrawal symptoms lasting weeks.

• Tell your doctor immediately if you experience any bizarre behaviors, suicidal thinking, or worsening depression and anxiety.

• Do not take triazolam with other CNS depressant drugs like opioid painkillers, as this can lead to severe adverse reactions, including potentially fatal respiratory depression. 

• Triazolam can cause dizziness, drowsiness, and reduced alertness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.