Key takeaways
Triazolam (Halcion) and trazodone are both used to help with sleep problems, but they belong to different medication classes. Triazolam is a benzodiazepine, while trazodone is an atypical antidepressant. Triazolam is FDA-approved for short-term treatment of insomnia, whereas trazodone is FDA-approved for major depressive disorder (MDD) and is sometimes used off-label for insomnia. Triazolam is typically taken as a single dose of 0.25 mg before bedtime, while trazodone is taken in divided doses throughout the day for depression but may be taken before bedtime for insomnia. Triazolam is a controlled substance due to its potential for misuse and dependence, while trazodone is not. Common side effects of both medications include sleepiness, headaches, and dizziness. Triazolam can cause life-threatening side effects if taken with opioids, while trazodone can increase the risk for serotonin syndrome, especially when mixed with other medications that increase serotonin.
