Halcion (Triazolam) Withdrawal Timeline And Detox Symptoms

Medically reviewed by

Isaac Alexis, M.D., AAMA, AMP-BC

May 10, 2019

Halcion is a benzodiazepine that sedates the central nervous system. Triazolam is often prescribed to help those who have trouble falling or staying asleep. Because this drug can lead to dependence and addiction, it is usually only prescribed short-term.

When a person stops taking Halcion suddenly, they may experience distressing withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal can affect people physically as well as psychologically. Symptoms of Halcion withdrawal can include vomiting, low mood, and hallucinations.

The timeline for withdrawal symptoms will depend on a number of factors, including the amount of Halcion a person was taking. Acute withdrawal symptoms usually last for 1-2 days.

However, people who were taking large amounts of Halcion or abusing triazolam may have a longer withdrawal period.

Why Does Halcion (Triazolam) Cause Withdrawal Symptoms?

When a person takes a strong sedative like triazolam, their body and mind become dependent on having the substance in order to function. Over time, a person may require larger doses to get the same effects. This is called having a tolerance.

If Halcion use is discontinued suddenly, the body will likely show signs of withdrawal, such as cramping, sweating, and shakiness.

These symptoms are part of the detoxification process. The body is attempting to clear itself of the toxins leftover from Halcion use. While withdrawal symptoms can be agonizing, the detox period for triazolam is significantly shorter than many other benzodiazepines.

Halcion (Triazolam) Withdrawal And Detox Symptoms

Halcion withdrawal symptoms can affect people physically as well as mentally. Symptoms may be mild, such as difficulty sleeping. Others may have more serious withdrawal effects, including hallucinations or seizures.

Additional symptoms of Halcion (triazolam) withdrawal and detox include:

• muscle cramps
• unpleasant feelings, sadness
• sensitivity to light
• uncontrollable shaking of a part of the body
• visual or auditory hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not there)
• seizures

Triazolam withdrawal can affect people differently. The level of acute withdrawal symptoms will depend on how much Halcion a person was taking, and how long they have been using the drug.

If you want to stop taking triazolam, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider. They will be able to help manage withdrawal symptoms and guide you through the detoxification process.

Halcion (Triazolam) Withdrawal And Detox Timeline

The timing and severity of triazolam withdrawal symptoms may differ from person to person. Most people who are dependent on a moderate dose of Halcion will experience withdrawal symptoms within 24-48 hours.

Compared to other benzodiazepines, Halcion has a shorter withdrawal timeline. Symptoms will generally last between 4-6 days.

Day 1 of Halcion (triazolam) withdrawal

For the first 24 hours after stopping Halcion, a person may experience symptoms like restlessness and difficulty sleeping. This is called rebound insomnia, and generally lasts for several days.

Initial symptoms of withdrawal can also include:

• agitation
• stomach pain
• anxiety
• muscle cramping
• sense of unease

Days 2 and 3 of Halcion (triazolam) withdrawal

Peak levels of withdrawal symptoms will likely occur several days into the detox process. In addition to nervousness and agitation, a person may experience muscle cramps and a low mood. If a person has been taking a high dose of Halcion, these symptoms may last for more than three days.

During this peak time of withdrawal symptoms, people who suffer from hallucinations may see, hear, feel, or smell things that do not exist. These symptoms are especially common among those who have been on heavy doses of triazolam.

Although this is less common, there have also been reported cases of seizure during triazolam withdrawal.

Days 4-6 of Halcion (triazolam) withdrawal

Once the more intense withdrawal symptoms have passed, there may be some lingering psychological effects. A person may feel sad or depressed, especially if they are unable to sleep well.

During the uncomfortable withdrawal process, try to remember that this is your body’s way of detoxing itself from the substance. Withdrawal is a temporary side effect of Halcion use, and will not last forever.

Many people coming off potent benzodiazepines like Halcion could benefit from participating in a medical detox program. These safe and supportive environments help to keep patients comfortable during the withdrawal and detox period.

Potential Dangers Of Halcion (Triazolam) Withdrawal And Detox

In addition to being physically and mentally agonizing, triazolam withdrawal can also lead to severe health risks.

Vomiting and sweating can result in dehydration, so it’s important to drink water throughout the detox process. There is also a risk of seizure when coming off a benzodiazepine like Halcion.

Withdrawal can also raise a person’s risk of overdose. If a person detoxes and then relapses (returns to the substance), their body will not be accustomed to the high dose. This could potentially lead to triazolam overdose, which includes symptoms like confusion and slurred speech.

Being in a medically supervised environment during detox can help to prevent the potential dangers of Halcion withdrawal. Additionally, detox programs provide medical and emotional support to those who experience psychological disturbances like hallucinations.

Medication-assisted treatment (MAT) is usually available in a medical detox program. Doctors may prescribe certain medications that soothe withdrawal symptoms and help to ease the detoxification process.

Getting Treatment For Halcion (Triazolam) Withdrawal And Detox

Rates of benzodiazepine abuse, including triazolam, have increased in recent years. If you or someone you love is struggling with Halcion withdrawal and detox, help is available at addiction treatment centers across the U.S.

Many rehab centers offer on-site detoxification programs, which include medical care as well as MAT. Doctors may taper patients off Halcion, which involves decreasing the benzodiazepine dose until the person is safely weaned off the substance.

Once a person is successfully detoxed from Halcion, they may participate in treatment services like group counseling and recovery therapies. Experts agree that attending long-term treatment after detoxification increases a person’s chance of a successful recovery.

To learn more about Halcion (triazolam) withdrawal symptoms and timeline, or to find a detox program near you, reach out to one of our treatment specialists today.