Triazolam Addiction and Abuse

Triazolam Info

• Triazolam Addiction and Abuse
• Triazolam Symptoms and Warning Signs
• Triazolam Treatment and Rehab
• Triazolam Withdrawal and Detox

What is Triazolam?

Triazolam is a central nervous system depressant, whose use in clinical medicine is similar to that of other benzodiazepines. However, compared to other benzodiazepines (or ‘benzos’), Triazolam is mostly used for treating severe insomnia.

Triazolam possesses hypnotic, amnesic, anticonvulsant, anxiolytic and muscle relaxant properties. Because of its short half-life, Triazolam is not sufficient medication for assisting patients who suffer from early or frequent awakenings. The short half-life of the drug also makes it an inappropriate remedy for the long-term treatment of anxiety or seizure management.

Other names for Triazolam

Halcion is the original brand name of Triazolam. The drug can also be found in English-speaking countries with brand names such as Trilam, Apo-Triazo, Hypam, Chloroxanax, Triazolam, and Chlorotriazolam.

What is Triazolam Used For?

Triazolam is generally prescribed for the short-term treatment of circadian rhythm sleep disorders, acute insomnia, and certain instances of jet lag. The drug is ideal for such treatment because it is fast-acting and has a short half-life. Triazolam can also be used as an adjuvant in medical procedures that require anaesthesia or to minimise anxiety before MRI scans or other non-surgical procedures.

Causes of Triazolam Addiction

People with co-occurring disorders usually abuse benzodiazepines like Triazolam by self-medicating or combining them with other substances. Examples of such co-occurring disorders include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, major depressive disorder, or sleeping disorders.

In truth, anyone who has been prescribed Triazolam is at risk of abusing it and becoming addicted, which is why the drug is only used to treat extreme cases or where an alternative remedy is deemed inadequate. Other risk factors that can result in Triazolam addiction include:

• Patients with medical problems such as muscle pain or alcohol withdrawal are likely to abuse sedatives like Triazolam to control their condition.
• According to the APA (American Psychiatric Association), genetic make-up plays a key part in determining the development of addiction to substances like benzodiazepines. If you have a family history of abusing benzodiazepines or some other form of addiction, the risk of you developing substance dependence when using Triazolam is much higher.
• Mental illnesses such as anxiety and panic disorders can cause an individual to use Triazolam for longer than necessary, which can lead to an increased tolerance to the drug over time and eventually a possible overdose.
• Polydrug use: this is the combination of Triazolam with similar depressants or other substances to intensify its effects. Such drug abuse is dangerous, as not only can it exacerbate addiction, it can also lead to fatal consequences.
• Environmental factors: The APA points out that individuals who live in an environment which gives them greater access to benzodiazepines – or people who are frequently surrounded by others with an addiction – are more likely to engage in similar behaviour.

How addictive is Triazolam?

A review of the long-term use of benzodiazepines such as Triazolam revealed that incorrect usage (or even using it according to prescription) can result in drug tolerance, substance dependence, related adverse effects on the central nervous system, as well as rebound insomnia. This is why it’s generally recommended that Triazolam is used at the lowest possible dose for the shortest period of time possible – typically two to four weeks, but no longer than six weeks.

Abruptly quitting the drug once addiction has developed can lead to a variety of withdrawal symptoms, which can be mildly unpleasant or quite severe.

Addictive Properties of Triazolam

These bodily adaptions will eventually lead to an increase in tolerance and result in your body needing higher doses of Triazolam to achieve the desired effect. This increase in tolerance and physical adaption is what leads to an eventual addiction. Once addiction sets in, you will experience withdrawal symptoms if you try to quit Triazolam.

Methods of Triazolam Usage

Triazolam is available as a tablet which can be taken orally.

What Does It Mean to Be Addicted to Triazolam?

Case studies have shown that the use of benzodiazepines like Triazolam can lead to the development of physical dependence and addiction. This can occur regardless of whether you’re using Triazolam according to prescription or not (or short-term or long-term). Physical dependence and addiction are often first preceded by an increase in tolerance to Triazolam. This will be followed by withdrawal symptoms in the event you suddenly try quitting the drug after you’ve developed an addiction to it.

Triazolam withdrawal is very similar to that of an alcohol withdrawal process. Because Triazolam has a very short half-life, you could experience withdrawal symptoms soon after you quit.

• Repeatedly using Triazolam in higher amounts and for longer periods of time than intended
• Intense and frequent cravings for Triazolam
• Unsuccessful efforts to quit Triazolam or reduce doses.
• Spending an increasing amount of time using Triazolam, getting over its effects, or trying to acquire more of the drug.
• Continuing Triazolam abuse in spite of it causing problems at work, school, or with personal relationships.
• Giving up important activities as a result of using Triazolam.
• Inability to maintain important obligations as a result of Triazolam usage.
• Developing risky behaviour due to Triazolam usage. For instance, mixing it with alcohol, or using it while driving.
• Needing more Triazolam to achieve desired effects.
• Developing withdrawal symptoms when not using Triazolam.

If a loved one is exhibiting any of the above signs of Triazolam abuse, please contact us immediately via our helpline to arrange for an intervention. We are available 24/7 on 0800 915 9402.

Triazolam Abuse: Signs and Symptoms

If you’ve already developed a physical dependence on Triazolam, you’ll likely begin to manifest the following physical side effects and symptoms of abuse:

There could also be the following psychological signs of abuse:

Health Risks from Triazolam Addiction

Once you develop an addiction to Triazolam and begin to use it heavily, you become at risk of suffering a variety of physical and psychological health complications.

Common health risks associated with Triazolam addiction include coordination problems, somnolence, and dizziness.

Less common health risks can include tachycardia, memory impairment, cramps/pain, depression, visual disturbances, diarrhoea, dermatitis/allergy, nightmares, insomnia, paresthesia, dysesthesia, weakness, and congestion.

Short-Term Effects of Triazolam

Being a central nervous system (CNS) depressant that slows down brain activity, Triazolam can typically lead to the following short-term effects:

These effects can be induced fairly quickly and could even lead to abuse, as people rely on the drug for quick relief.

Long-Term Effects of Triazolam

Triazolam and other benzodiazepines shouldn’t be used long-term, as this can lead to substance dependence. Asides from this, other long-term effects of chronic Triazolam abuse can include:

Withdrawal Effects of Triazolam Abuse

Triazolam withdrawal symptoms can occur when you stop using the drug suddenly after a period of frequent use. You should only use Triazolam at the lowest effective dose and for the shortest possible period of time.

Triazolam’s short half-life means its withdrawal symptoms could be more severe than that of other benzodiazepines with a longer half-life. Symptoms of Triazolam withdrawal can include:

Severe withdrawal symptoms can include psychosis, auditory hallucinations, and cognitive disorders. A medically assisted detox is often the best way to overcome such symptoms.

Depending on the severity of your addiction, you may also experience Delirium Tremens (DT). This is often characterised by a sudden change in your mental state that leaves you disoriented and confused. DT can also be accompanied by extreme anxiety, tremors, hallucinations, and decreased attention span.

Co-Occurring Disorders

If you are abusing Triazolam, it’s possible you’re also simultaneously suffering from a co-occurring mental health condition. If you have a co-occurring disorder whilst going through addiction, it becomes difficult to make a full recovery without also treating it. This is because co-occurring disorders often contribute to substance abuse, and failing to treat the disorder can in time lead to a return to drug use.

The following disorders have been noticed amongst people going through Triazolam addiction:

Who is at Risk of Triazolam Addiction?

Anyone who has been prescribed Triazolam and is using it as a form of treatment is at risk of developing an addiction. This is why its use in clinical medicine and its distribution is closely regulated by law. In order to reduce the risk of developing a Triazolam addiction, it’s best to use the drug for only a short time period and never beyond the dose prescribed by your doctor. It’s also best to never combine the use of Triazolam with other substances, without first informing your doctor. This especially includes combining Triazolam with alcohol or other stimulants to heighten its effects.

Teen Triazolam Abuse and Addiction

Adolescence can be an emotionally trying period for a teenager. Such circumstances can lead a teen to ill-advisedly abuse Triazolam with the aim of escaping the troubles of everyday life. This is more likely if a teen has easy access to Triazolam – either from friends or family.

It’s misguided to assume that Triazolam or other prescription medications are safer than street drugs. In actuality, benzodiazepines like Triazolam are just as dangerous, especially if they are abused alongside painkillers or alcohol. If abused frequently or in high doses, Triazolam usage can become habit-forming or addictive and even lead to physical and psychological dependence. Because of its potency, it is advisable Triazolam not be used to manage anxiety or the stresses of day to day living.

Cost of Triazolam Addiction

The cost of Triazolam addiction treatment will vary, based on a number of factors. For instance, the severity of addiction and how long treatment will last will all factor into the cost of treatment. Also, whether treatment is received via an outpatient or inpatient programme will also affect the cost. Treatment at an inpatient facility generally costs more than what is provided at an outpatient facility, due to the added cost of boarding and intensive round-the-clock care. However, the cost of treatment can be minimised if your policy covers addiction treatment and if the facility in question accepts insurance as a way of payment.

Aside from the financial cost of Triazolam addiction, there’s also the human cost, which affects your relationships and professional career. When a drug habit takes control of your life, it can make you negligent with regards your job or relationships. This can result in problems at home, distancing from friends, and possible failure in the workplace, education or other aspects of your professional life.

Effects of Triazolam Abuse on the Brain and Body

The relationship between Triazolam and Other Substances

Certain substances can lead to unwanted or possibly fatal side effects when consumed alongside Triazolam. The following drugs can increase the toxicity or depressive effects of Triazolam:

Also, Triazolam should also never be taken with alcohol or cocaine.

Triazolam Overdose explained

An overdose occurs when you consume more Triazolam than your body can metabolise. A Triazolam overdose can be lethal, depending on the circumstances. Generally, emergency treatment at a hospital greatly minimises the potential fatality of overdose. Symptoms of a Triazolam overdose can include:

If experiencing any of the above – or you see a loved exhibiting such symptoms – please seek prompt medical attention.

Death can also occur from a Triazolam overdose, which is most likely if the drug is abused alongside other depressants such as alcohol or opioids.

What to Do If You Need Help Quitting

If you’ve been abusing Triazolam for some time and would like to quit, please don’t try to do so on your own. On quitting a benzodiazepine, withdrawal symptoms can be complicated and it’s best if treatment is provided in a professional addiction treatment facility.

Triazolam Withdrawal

Triazolam withdrawal involves symptoms that addicts experience when they quit using the drug. Withdrawal can occur if you’ve developed dependence whilst using Triazolam to treat an ailment or when abusing the drug recreationally. In general, withdrawal brought on by Triazolam addiction is believed to be less severe than that experienced with stronger benzodiazepines like Xanax.

The duration and severity of Triazolam withdrawal will depend on how long you’ve been abusing the drug; the dosage frequently used; if you were combining the drug with other substances; as well as other relevant factors.

Symptoms of Withdrawal

Without Triazolam, a brain that’s addicted to the substance becomes hyperactive, which leads to the following withdrawal symptoms:

Triazolam is generally prescribed to provide short-term relief from insomnia. If you have developed an addiction and suddenly stop using the drug, you’ll likely experience a resurgence of insomnia (rebound insomnia), which typically lasts for only two or three days after your last dose of Triazolam.

Duration of Withdrawal

Triazolam’s rapid absorption rate and potency imply withdrawal symptoms can begin manifesting within hours of your last dose. However, Triazolam withdrawal generally doesn’t last as long as what’s experienced from abusing long-acting benzodiazepines.

Triazolam withdrawal symptoms can last anywhere from five days to two weeks, but the frequency and how long you’ve been abusing the drug can influence the duration. Some individuals may even experience withdrawal after using Triazolam for as little as two weeks.

Triazolam Withdrawal Timeline

First 2-4 hoursWithdrawal symptoms can manifest a few hours after your last Triazolam dose. Rebound insomnia and anxiety are often the first symptoms.

Days 1-2Withdrawal symptoms often peak at 24 to 48 hours after the last Triazolam dose. Anxiety and insomnia symptoms could become aggravated, while nausea, muscle cramps, as well as shakiness may also be experienced.

Days 3-4At this stage, the intensity of symptoms may reduce and sleep quality improve. However, for a person whose Triazolam abuse was more severe, withdrawal symptoms may still be fairly strong.

Days 5+By the fifth day, withdrawal symptoms should be alleviated, with only mild symptoms manifesting for another week.

If you would like Triazolam addiction treatment that facilitates recovery and ensures you overcome your addiction safely, contact us today on 0800 915 9402 to discover treatment options in your area.

Triazolam Addiction Treatment

Withdrawal symptoms from quitting Triazolam can be dangerous if not properly managed. A medically assisted detoxification can help reduce the discomfort of withdrawal, as well as minimise risks and avoid any health complications. This can be accomplished by monitoring your vital signs and providing a safe, structured environment, where you can make a full recovery from Triazolam addiction.

Upon completion of detoxification, you can receive further treatment via the following:

• Inpatient treatment: This is intensive short-term care that focuses on stabilising a recovering addict medically and psychiatrically.
• Outpatient therapy: Different types of treatment are used to help you recover and you can leave the drug rehabilitation centre each day after receiving treatment.
• Residential recovery assistance: This is a longer-term form of treatment that’s delivered in a safe and comfortable environment.
• Recovery housing: One such example is a sober living house, where rules are less rigid and you can easily make a transition back to independent living whilst recovering.

If you are interested in receiving addiction treatment, call 0800 915 9402 to get started on enjoying a Triazolam addiction-free life.

Possible Complications

The overall benefits of undergoing detox far outweigh its risks. However, said risks are much easier to deal with if you know what they are (and the possible complications they can lead to), as well as how to deal with them accordingly. Some of the common risks during the Triazolam withdrawal process (especially an unprofessionally managed one) include:

To discover more about these complications, contact us for a friendly chat. Always remember that the risks of going through detox are far less than what a lifetime of Triazolam addiction has to offer.

When to Contact a Medical Professional

If you’ve been using Triazolam and notice that you require higher doses of the drug to achieve the desired effect – or that you experience withdrawal symptoms whenever you fail to take a fresh dose – please contact a medical professional immediately. This is because increased tolerance and withdrawal symptoms are signs that you have developed a physical dependence. The sooner you get help with substance dependence, the better. The condition will only worsen in the absence of proper treatment.

Triazolam Recovery Plan

An effective recovery plan for Triazolam addiction is tapering, which involves the gradual reduction of Triazolam dosage until you are completely weaned off the drug. Triazolam may also be substituted for a longer-acting benzodiazepine before tapering commences. How long tapering will go on for is mostly dependent on the severity of your addiction and the associated withdrawal symptoms.

Detox is a crucial first step in making a full recovery, but the detox process is infinitely safer and effective if directly supervised by a medical professional, who has the expertise to recommend medication as necessary and at appropriate doses to minimise withdrawal symptoms.

Medical Detox for Triazolam

A medical detox is a good start towards making a full recovery from addiction and maintaining abstinence long-term. Medically assisted therapy could make use of the following medication to not only hasten your recovery but make the entire process less uncomfortable.

Triazolam Addiction Statistics

1.2 million prescriptions for Halcion are issued each year. In the United States, about 10 to 15% of adults suffer from chronic insomnia and Triazolam is one of the most prescribed tranquilisers for treatment. In 2008, more than 60,000 treatment admissions occurred from the abuse of benzodiazepines.

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