{"id":7398,"date":"2023-01-04T09:15:38","date_gmt":"2023-01-04T17:15:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cms.helloklarity.com\/?p=7398"},"modified":"2023-12-20T11:52:59","modified_gmt":"2023-12-20T19:52:59","slug":"halcion-vs-ambien","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cms.helloklarity.com\/post\/halcion-vs-ambien\/","title":{"rendered":"Halcion vs. Ambien"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

If you are not getting a good night’s sleep, you are not alone. With so many insomnia treatment options on the market, it can feel exhausting to understand the different types of medications, let alone decide which treatment option is best for you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this article, we give a side-by-side comparison guide of two commonly prescribed medications used to treat insomnia: Halcion and Ambien. This guide is for educational purposes only and should not<\/strong> be used to self-diagnose or self-medicate your symptoms. Instead, we hope it can help you make a more informed decision when discussing insomnia treatment<\/a> with your healthcare provider. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are suffering from insomnia and believe that a medication like Halcion or Ambien could benefit you, speak to a psychiatric professional virtually on Klarity today. We\u2019ll connect you with an insomnia specialist who can evaluate your symptoms and prescribe you a safe and effective dosage of insomnia medication if they determine it to be the best option for you. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Schedule an appointment<\/a> to begin affordable, convenient, and insurance-free insomnia treatment in just 48 hours. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Halcion is a benzodiazepine, making it a potentially addictive substance. For this reason, many of the providers on Klarity won\u2019t prescribe Halcion to insomnia patients. Instead, they will work with you to find a more suitable insomnia medication. Connect with a provider today to learn more. <\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t
<\/th>Halcion<\/th>Ambien<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Drug Class<\/strong><\/td>Benzodiazepine
\n
\n<\/td>
Sedative-hypnotic<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Brand \/ Generic Status<\/strong><\/td>Brand name for triazolam
\n
\n<\/td>
Brand name for zolpidem<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Form(s) of the Drug<\/strong><\/td>Immediate-release tablet<\/td>\u2022 Immediate-release tablet
\n\u2022 Extended-release tablet
\n\u2022 Nasal spray
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Standard Dosage<\/strong><\/td>Immediate-release tablet
\n\u2022 0.125mg
\n\u2022 0.25mg
\n<\/td>
Immediate-release tablet:
\n\u2022 5mg
\n\u2022 10mg
\n
\nExtended-release tablet:
\n\u2022 6.25mg
\n\u2022 12.5mg
\n
\nNasal spray:
\n\u2022 5mg per metered spray
\n
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Conditions Treated<\/strong><\/td>FDA-approved uses:
\n\u2022 Insomnia
\n
\nOff-label uses:
\n\u2022 Oral sedation for outpatient dental procedures.
\n
\n<\/td>
FDA-approved uses:
\n\u2022 Insomnia
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cost<\/strong><\/td>Brand-name:
\n\u2022 $200 for a 30-day supply
\n\u2022 $10 for a 30-day supply (with coupons)
\n
\nGeneric (triazolam):
\n\u2022 $36 to $52 for a 30-day supply
\n<\/td>
Brand-name:
\n\u2022 $668 for a 30-day supply
\n
\nGeneric formula:
\n\u2022 $8.30 to $58 for a 30-day supply (with insurance)
\n\u2022 $21.64 per pill (without insurance)
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Side-Effects<\/strong><\/td>Common side effects:
\n\u2022 Daytime drowsiness
\n\u2022 Dizziness
\n\u2022 Loss of coordination
\n\u2022 New or worsening depression
\n\u2022 Headache
\n\u2022 Issues with memory
\n\u2022 Paresthesias or numbness and tingling
\n
\nSerious side effects:
\n\u2022 Anxiety
\n\u2022 Sudden changes in mood or behavior
\n\u2022 Confusion
\n\u2022 Memory loss
\n\u2022 Agitation
\n\u2022 Hallucinations
\n\u2022 Depression
\n\u2022 Suicidal thoughts
\n<\/td>
Common side effects:
\n\u2022 Dizziness
\nLightheadedness
\n\u2022 Loss of coordination or balance
\n\u2022 Congestion
\n\u2022 Nausea
\n\u2022 Dry mouth
\n\u2022 Constipation
\n\u2022 Diarrhea
\n\u2022 Confusion
\n\u2022 Stomach ache
\n\u2022 Euphoria
\n\u2022 Muscle pain
\n\u2022 Visual changes
\n\u2022 Headaches
\n\u2022 Drowsiness
\n
\nSerious side effects:
\n\u2022 Memory loss
\n\u2022 Changes in behavior
\n\u2022 Depression
\n\u2022 Anxiety
\n\u2022 Aggression
\n\u2022 Suicidal ideation<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Warnings For Use<\/strong><\/td>Contraindicated conditions:
\n\u2022 Mood disorders
\n\u2022 Psychiatric disorders
\n\u2022 HIstory of substance abuse
\n
\nDrug interactions:
\n\u2022 Other central nervous system depressants
\n\u2022 Other sleep aid medications
\n\u2022 Opioid medications
\n\u2022 Certain psychiatric medications
\n\u2022 Peripheral neuropathy medicine
\n\u2022 Diabetic medications
\n<\/td>
Contraindicated conditions:
\n\u2022 Alcohol intoxication
\n\u2022 Depression
\n\u2022 Drug dependence
\n\u2022 Liver disease
\n\u2022 Glaucoma
\n\u2022 Renal dysfunction
\n\u2022 Liver disease
\n\u2022 Respiratory depression
\n
\nDrug interactions:
\n\u2022 Tramadol
\n\u2022 Ativan
\n\u2022 Clonazepam
\n\u2022 Cymbalta
\n\u2022 Flexeril
\n\u2022 Gabapentin
\n\u2022 Klonopin
\n\u2022 Lexapro
\n\u2022 Lisinopril
\n\u2022 Lyrica
\n\u2022 Trazodone
\n\u2022 Xanax
\n\u2022 Zoloft
\n
\n
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\n

What is Halcion?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Halcion is the brand name of the generic drug triazolam, which belongs to a class of medications called benzodiazepines. Halcion works by binding to GABA inhibitory receptors, which slow down activity in the brain, causing sedation and promoting sleep. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Halcion Forms and Doses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Halcion and triazolam are available in tablet form only. Triazolam is prescribed in 0.125 mg and 0.25 mg dosages. The name-brand Halcion drug is available in 0.25 mg dosing only but comes as a scored tablet that can be split into smaller dosages. The initial dose is 0.125 mg once daily before bed, but it can be increased to the maximum dose of 0.25 mg per day.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Conditions Halcion Treats<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Halcion is FDA-approved for the short-term treatment of sleep-onset insomnia, which can be described as difficulty initially falling asleep. This medication also has an off-label use of oral sedation prior to outpatient dental procedures.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Halcion Costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Halcion is a relatively affordable medication and is covered by most insurance plans. If you do not have health insurance, the use of coupon codes at large pharmacies can significantly lower the cost of the medication. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For example, the retail price of Halcion is over $200 for a 30-day supply, but with the use of coupons, the cost is lowered to under $10 per month. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Halcion Side Effects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As with any medication, there is a risk of developing side effects when starting Halcion. If you begin to experience serious adverse effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The most common side effects associated with Halcion include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  • Daytime drowsiness <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Dizziness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Loss of coordination <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • New or worsening depression <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Headache <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Issues with memory <\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Paresthesias or numbness and tingling <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

    Halcion Warnings For Use<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    While Halcion is considered to be a relatively safe and effective medication to take for the treatment of insomnia, some important safety precautions should be kept in mind before starting the medication. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Complex Sleep Behaviors <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

    A rare but serious side effect of Halcion is complex sleep behaviors, which can be described as activities or behaviors that occur when the individual is not fully conscious or awake. Some examples of this include sleepwalking and sleep-driving, which can both end in dangerous outcomes for those involved. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    If you begin to experience complex sleep behaviors when starting Halcion or any sleep aid, it is important to immediately discontinue the medication and contact your healthcare provider. Most people do not remember these events and, therefore, should be closely monitored when starting the medication. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Limit Long-term Use <\/h4>\n\n\n\n

    Medication misuse warning:<\/strong> Halcion belongs to the class of medications known as benzodiazepines, which have the potential for habit formation and dependence. It is classified as a Schedule IV controlled substance due to its abuse potential. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Prolonged use of Halcion can lead to physical and psychological dependence, and abrupt discontinuation or rapid dose reduction may result in withdrawal symptoms or rebound insomnia. It is crucial to strictly follow your healthcare provider’s prescribed dosage and duration of treatment. Avoid exceeding the recommended dose or using Halcion for an extended period without medical supervision. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    If you have a history of substance abuse or dependency, it is important to discuss this with your healthcare provider before starting Halcion. Regular monitoring and close communication with your healthcare provider are essential to manage the risks associated with Halcion use and ensure a safe treatment plan.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Psychological and Behavioral Changes<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

    Reports have found that with long-term use of Halcion, there is a potential risk of developing changes in mood and behavior. This may include new or worsening depression, hallucinations, confusion, agitation, or bizarre behavior. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Before starting the medication, your healthcare provider should evaluate you for any underlying mood or psychiatric disorders that can exacerbate these symptoms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    Halcion Interactions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

    Be sure to disclose all medications you are currently taking with your healthcare provider, including all over-the-counter medications and supplements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    The most common drug interactions with Halcion include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

      \n
    • Other central nervous system depressants, such as alcohol or other benzodiazepines<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Other sleep aid medications, such as Ambien<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Opioid medications<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Certain psychiatric medications, such as Cymbalta, Lexapro, or Buspar <\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Peripheral neuropathy medicine, including Gabapentin and Lyrica <\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • Diabetic medications, such as Metformin <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\t\t
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