Benzodiazepine (very short-acting), typically used for sleep induction

Halcion (triazolam) Withdrawal

Halcion (triazolam) has the shortest half-life of the commonly-prescribed benzodiazepines. This makes inter-dose withdrawal and rebound insomnia particularly pronounced. Chronic use is uncommon now, but for patients who do use it chronically, the withdrawal pattern can be intense given the rapid offset.

By Dr. Ben Soffer, DO — board-certified physician, at-home ketamine therapy in Florida and New Jersey.

Half-life

~1.5-5.5 hours.

Withdrawal timeline

Onset— 6-12 hours after stopping

Symptoms emerge quickly given the very short half-life.

Peak— Days 1-3

Rebound insomnia and anxiety peak quickly.

Resolution— 1-3 weeks

Most patients are through the acute phase within a few weeks.

Common symptoms

  • Severe rebound insomnia
  • Anxiety
  • Tremor
  • Sweating
  • Irritability

Less common

  • Sensory hypersensitivity

Tapering guidance

  • Many patients cross-taper from Halcion to a longer-acting benzodiazepine before tapering, given the rapid rebound.
  • Plan sleep-support strategies before tapering.

Where ketamine therapy fits

Same considerations as other benzos. Plan sessions at maximum distance from Halcion doses and coordinate with the prescribing physician.

Check ketamine therapy eligibilityMedication safety with ketamine

Frequently asked questions

Why is Halcion withdrawal so intense?

The half-life is very short (1.5-5.5 hours), which means serum levels drop rapidly and rebound effects emerge within hours of a missed dose. Cross-tapering to a longer-acting benzo before tapering can smooth the washout.

Important: This page is informational and does not constitute medical advice or a recommendation to start, stop, or change any medication. Tapering psychiatric medications should always be coordinated with the prescribing physician. Compounded ketamine for anxiety, depression, PTSD, and chronic pain is not FDA approved.

Browse all medication withdrawal guides.