Key takeaways
Triazolam (Halcion) and estazolam are both benzodiazepines used to treat insomnia, but they have some key differences. Triazolam is primarily used to help you fall asleep and is short-acting, meaning its effects wear off quickly. In contrast, estazolam can help you both fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night. Triazolam is available in both brand and generic forms, while estazolam is only available as a generic since the brand name (Prosom) is no longer on the market. Both medications are controlled substances with risks of misuse, dependence, and withdrawal, but estazolam has a higher chance of common side effects like sleepiness and headache. Both medications should be used short-term and under close supervision to minimize risks.
