What is HALCION?

HALCION is a prescription medicine used in adults for the short-term treatment of a sleep problem called insomnia. HALCION is usually taken for 7 to 10 days.

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HALCION is a federal controlled substance (CIV) because it contains triazolam that can be abused or lead to dependence. Keep HALCION in a safe place to prevent misuse and abuse. Selling or giving away HALCION may harm others, and is against the law. Tell your healthcare provider if you have abused or been dependent on alcohol, prescription medicines or street drugs.

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It is not known if HALCION is safe and effective in children.

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It is not known if HALCION is safe and effective for use longer than 2 to 3 weeks.

Do not take HALCION if you:

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are allergic to triazolam, other benzodiazepines, or any of the ingredients in HALCION. Severe allergic reactions including swelling of the tongue or throat, trouble breathing and throat closing have happened and may lead to death. Get medical help right away if you have an allergic reaction to HALCION. See the end of this Medication Guide for a complete list of ingredients in HALCION.

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take antifungal medicines including ketoconazole and itraconazole

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take a medicine to treat depression called nefazodone

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take medicines to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1 infection called protease inhibitors.

Before you take HALCION, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if you:

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have a history of depression, mood problems, mental illness, suicidal thoughts or behavior

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have a history of drug or alcohol abuse or addiction

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have lung problems, breathing problems, or sleep apnea

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are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

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Taking HALCION late in pregnancy may cause your baby to have symptoms of sedation (breathing problems, sluggishness, low muscle tone), and/or withdrawal symptoms (jitteriness, irritability, restlessness, shaking, excessive crying, feeding problems).

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Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant or think you are pregnant during treatment with HALCION.

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There is a pregnancy registry for women who take HALCION during pregnancy. The purpose of the registry is to collect information about the health of you and your baby. If you become pregnant during treatment with HALCION, talk to your healthcare provider about registering with the National Pregnancy Registry for Psychiatric Medications. You can register by calling 1-866-961-2388 or visiting https://womensmentalhealth.org/pregnancyregistry/

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are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. It is not known if HALCION can pass through your breast milk.

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Breastfeeding during treatment with HALCION may cause your baby to have sleepiness, feeding problems, and decreased weight gain.

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Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby if you take HALCION.

Tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Taking HALCION with certain other medicines can cause side effects or affect how well HALCION or the other medicines work. Do not start or stop other medicines without talking to your healthcare provider.