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Compare Triazolam vs. Desyrel

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

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.

  • Triazolam (Halcion)
    Trazodone
  • Triazolam (Halcion)
    Trazodone

  • Summary of Triazolam vs. Desyrel

    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 Atypical antidepressant
    Prescription only

    Trazodone is an atypical antidepressant. It's FDA-approved to treat depression in adults, but it isn't a first-choice option. In addition, trazodone is sometimes prescribed off-label for difficulty sleeping (insomnia). This medication is taken by mouth, typically once or a few times a day, depending on your condition. Common side effects of this medication include sleepiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. Brand name Desyrel has been discontinued.

  • Indications of Triazolam vs. Desyrel

    Indications for
    •Insomnia (difficulty sleeping) in adults
    Indications for
    •Major depressive disorder (MDD)

  • Pros and Cons of Triazolam vs. Desyrel

    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 Atypical antidepressant
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Fewer sexual side effects than some other antidepressants
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Starts to work within a week for treating depression
    Cons
    •Not a first-choice medication for depression
    •Can interact with other medications, especially those affecting serotonin levels
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it

  • Common Side Effects of Triazolam vs. Desyrel

    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 (up to 41%)
    •Dry mouth (up to 34%)
    •Dizziness or lightheadedness (up to 28%)
    •Headache (up to 20%)
    •Blurred vision (up to 15%)
    •Nausea or vomiting (up to 13%)

  • Warnings of Triazolam vs. Desyrel

    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
    •Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
    •Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
    •Dizziness from lower blood pressure
    •Risk of bleeding
    •Prolonged and painful erection
    •Glaucoma
    •Low blood sodium levels
    •Withdrawal

  • Prices with our coupons for Triazolam vs. Desyrel

    Learn more about Triazolam
    Learn more about Trazodone

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