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Compare Triazolam vs. Chlordiazepoxide

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

Key takeaways

Triazolam (Halcion) and chlordiazepoxide (Librium) 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, chlordiazepoxide is used for short-term relief of anxiety symptoms and to prevent alcohol withdrawal symptoms, such as seizures. Triazolam is a short-acting medication, meaning its effects wear off quickly, while chlordiazepoxide is long-acting and stays in your system for a longer time. Both medications carry risks of addiction, misuse, and dependence, and should be used only as prescribed. Triazolam is not recommended during pregnancy due to potential harm to the baby, and the same caution applies to chlordiazepoxide. Additionally, both medications can cause drowsiness and should not be mixed with alcohol or opioids due to the risk of severe side effects.

  • Triazolam (Halcion)
    Chlordiazepoxide
  • Triazolam (Halcion)
    Chlordiazepoxide

  • Summary of Triazolam vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    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

    Chlordiazepoxide is used for the short-term relief of anxiety symptoms. It can also prevent alcohol withdrawal symptoms, like seizures. This medication has a risk of addiction, so it's classified as a schedule IV controlled substance. Your dose will depend on the reason why you're using it, your age, and your other health conditions. Some possible side effects of chlordiazepoxide include drowsiness, trouble with balance and movement, and confusion. Chlordiazepoxide comes as a capsule, and is available as a brand name and a lower-cost generic.

  • Indications of Triazolam vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    Indications for
    •Insomnia (difficulty sleeping) in adults
    Indications for
    •Alcohol withdrawal
    •Preoperative anxiety and anxiety disorders

  • Pros and Cons of Triazolam vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    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
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •A first-choice treatment option for alcohol withdrawal
    •Can be used in children age 6 and older
    •Dose can be adjusted by your provider based on your response
    Cons
    •Controlled medication due to the risk of addiction, misuse, and dependence
    •Risk of more side effects in older adults
    •Can cause withdrawal if suddenly stopped
    •Should only be used short-term

  • Common Side Effects of Triazolam vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    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
    •Drowsiness
    •Confusion
    •Loss of coordination (clumsiness)

  • Warnings of Triazolam vs. Chlordiazepoxide

    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
    •Risks while also taking opioids
    •Potential for addiction, misuse, dependence, and withdrawal
    •Effect on driving and concentration
    •Harm to babies

  • Prices with our coupons for Triazolam vs. Chlordiazepoxide

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