What is Halcion?

Halcion is the brand name for a central nervous system (CNS) depressant benzodiazepine.The generic name is Triazolam and it has pharmacological properties similar to other benzodiazepines. Halcion is generally used as a sedative to treat severe insomnia. In addition to the hypnotic properties, triazolam possesses amnesic, anxiolytic, sedative, anticonvulsant and muscle relaxant properties. It is limited in use because it has a short half-life as it is not effective for patients that suffer from frequent awakenings or early wakening.

Halcion was patented in 1970 and went on sale in 1982 in the United States.

The other 3 choices concern the word Halcyon as it is a castle, song title and a family of birds (Halcyonidae).

More Info: en.wikipedia.org

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61 Comments

Jim Laughner

Best darn short term sleeping aid available for someone suffering severe pain, no "sleeping pill hangover" or other negative effects when used properly, BUT people were abusing it and it was ultimately banned and therefore it's unavailable to people who need it and would use it properly.

JoAnn Ivaldi

I use it. I am an insomniac and it really helps. It's not banned but doctors don't like to prescribe it because it's addictive. It's way better than Ambien! Ambien has nasty side affects.

mapiferuk

“It is limited in use because it has a short half-life…” what does this mean?

J. G. Campbell

Glynis Rix, Whem spelled with the i, it's the drug. When spelled with the y, it's the otiginal sprlling, meaning peaceful, dreamy, etc. Of course, the spelling with the y is original

Lizzie Jarrett

Kenneth Dallas, and also Halcyon is the genus of kingfishers, one of the given choices

Lizzie Jarrett

I too got mixed up with the spelling as the genus of kingfishers is Halcyon 🙄

steffiritt

I work in a pharmacy and I have two patients on this

Glynis Rix

I remember an expression "halcyon days" but not the correct spelling!

Carol Elizabeth Debe

Good guess.

cindylou

It is a horrible pill. It caused psychosis and very nearly killed my elderly father. It is not illegal but it should be.

mlphilpot

Sounds positively scary!

jack patti go

I remember residents in a long term care facility, that I worked in, therecwere a few who took this..

Tony Zoars

Got it mixed up with "Halcyon Days" which is a period of quiet and restful days. Doesn't pay to be sort of literate. You need to be completely literate.