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Compare Triazolam vs. Ativan

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Triazolam (Halcion) and lorazepam (Ativan) are both benzodiazepines, but they are used for different purposes. Triazolam is primarily prescribed for short-term treatment of insomnia, helping you fall asleep quickly. In contrast, lorazepam is used for short-term treatment of anxiety and can also be used to control seizures and ease anxiety before surgery. Triazolam is typically taken once before bedtime, while lorazepam can be taken 1 to 3 times daily, depending on the formulation. Both medications can cause sleepiness and dizziness, but lorazepam is also available as an injectable form for specific medical conditions. Triazolam is not a first-choice option for insomnia due to its potential to cause next-day anxiety, whereas lorazepam is commonly used for anxiety relief. Both medications carry risks of dependence and withdrawal, and you should avoid alcohol while taking either.

  • Triazolam (Halcion)
    Lorazepam (Ativan)
  • Triazolam (Halcion)
    Lorazepam (Ativan)

  • Summary of Triazolam vs. Ativan

    Summary for Benzodiazepine
    Prescription only

    Triazolam (Halcion) is used to treat insomnia in adults. It belongs to the drug class called benzodiazepines. The typical dosage is one tablet by mouth before bedtime. This medication helps you sleep, but it should only be used for a short period of time, typically for 7 to 10 days at a time. In addition to sedation (sleepiness), this medication can cause side effects like headaches and dizziness. Like other benzodiazepines, triazolam (Halcion) also has other serious risks and interactions with other medications.

    Summary for Benzodiazepine
    Prescription only

    Lorazepam (Ativan) is a benzodiazepine used for short-term treatment of anxiety. The oral tablets and solution are taken by mouth, typically 1 to 3 times daily, depending on the formulation. Lorazepam is also available as an injectable medication that's given by healthcare professionals in a hospital setting to control seizures. Sleepiness and dizziness are the most common side effects of lorazepam (Ativan).

  • Indications of Triazolam vs. Ativan

    Indications for
    •Insomnia (difficulty sleeping) in adults
    Indications for
    •Anxiety disorders
    •Anxiety associated with depressive symptoms
    •Short-term relief of anxiety
    •Seizures lasting longer than 5 minutes - injection only
    •Surgery-related anxiety, usually given shortly before anesthesia - injection only

  • Pros and Cons of Triazolam vs. Ativan

    Pros and Const for Benzodiazepine
    Pros
    •Might start to work within 30 minutes
    •Side effects wear off quickly since it's short-acting
    •Lower-cost generic form available
    Cons
    •Only helps with falling asleep, not staying asleep
    •Can cause more nervousness during the day
    •Might not work as well if it's used long term (meant for short-term use only)
    Pros and Const for Benzodiazepine
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Might start to work within 30 minutes to manage anxiety symptoms
    •Available as oral solution, good option for those who can't swallow tablets
    •Some forms available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Short-term use only because risk of dependence and memory problems
    •Can drowsiness, and dizziness
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly
    •Can't take with alcohol

  • Common Side Effects of Triazolam vs. Ativan

    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness (14%)
    •Headache (10%)
    •Dizziness (8%)
    •Nervousness (5%)
    •Lightheadedness (5%)
    •Problems with coordination or movement (5%)
    •Nausea or vomiting (5%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness (16%)
    •Dizziness (7%)
    •Weakness (4%)
    •Unsteadiness (3%)

  • Warnings of Triazolam vs. Ativan

    Common Side Effects for
    •Serious risks when taking triazolam (Halcion) and opioids together
    •Potential for misuse and addiction
    •Physical dependence and withdrawal
    •Unusual behavior while sleeping
    •Changes in thoughts or behavior
    •Effects on driving and concentration
    •Difficulty breathing
    •Harm to unborn baby
    •Interactions with other medications
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sedation and difficulty breathing
    •Misuse, dependence, and withdrawal
    •Depression and suicidal thoughts or behaviors
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Trouble breathing
    •Risk of agitation and restlessness
    •Harm to babies
    •Serious allergic reaction (Loreev XR only)

  • Prices with our coupons for Triazolam vs. Ativan

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