Snorting Halcion | Effects & Dangers Of Triazolam Insufflation

Triazolam (brand name Halcion) is a prescription medication and Schedule IV controlled substance according to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). 

Since this prescription drug can lead to psychological or physical dependence with long-term use, some may participate in various forms of Halcion abuse, including the act of snorting the drug.

This benzodiazepine, sometimes referred to as a “benzo,” is prescribed for insomnia and certain sleep disorders for short-term use only. The drug calms the central nervous system (CNS) and enhances the neurotransmitter gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), a receptor in the brain.

Effects Of Snorting Halcion

The insufflation of Halcion is a form of substance abuse which can result in serious side effects as well as numerous dangers to your health. This is because, when snorted, the drug enters the bloodstream much more quickly than when taken orally and as prescribed.

To snort the substance, a person must crush the tablet into a powder and then inhale the drug through a straw or other method.

Common Side Effects

In general, Halcion can create several common side effects according to the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Any of the following effects of Halcion can be exacerbated due to snorting the drug:

• lightheadedness
• headache
• drowsiness
• sleepiness
• nausea
• sedation
• dizziness
• feelings of euphoria

Serious Side Effects

Additionally, more serious side effects from this type of Halcion use may consist of:

• damage to the nasal passages
• Halcion withdrawal symptoms
• increased risk of a Halcion overdose
• damage to lung health
• risk of disease

Dangers Of Snorting Halcion

Dangers to your health due to Halcion drug use can occur. These dangers can harm the body in several ways.

Damage To Nasal Passages & Lung Health

Snorting such a harsh substance can irritate the sinuses, producing a range of effects which can result in the loss of nasal cartilage. Over time, the inhaled powder will damage the mucous membranes of the nose. This can lead to a loss of smell.

Nosebleeds can occur as well as bacterial infections. Additionally, snorting Halcion may damage the lungs or airways, even irritating the throat and causing inflammation.

Risk Of Disease

Those who share straws or other paraphernalia to snort Halcion may inadvertently swap bodily fluids with others using the same tool. This can lead to diseases such as hepatitis C or HIV.

Withdrawal Symptoms

Those who have a drug addiction to Halcion and abruptly stop drug use without seeking treatment may suffer from withdrawal symptoms.

If Halcion withdrawal occurs, some of the symptoms may include:

• severe cravings for the drug
• rebound insomnia
• mental health problems such as anxiety
• tremors
• sleeping problems

Halcion Overdose

The National Library of Medicine states the usual dosage of Halcion for patients is 0.25 mg. If a person exceeds the prescribed dosage, they may be at risk of suffering from an overdose.

Those with a benzodiazepine addiction may turn to alternative methods to achieve the desired sedative effects. Partaking in snorting, smoking, or plugging Halcion can increase the risk of overdose.

If a life-threatening overdose occurs, contact 911 immediately and seek urgent medical attention.

Signs that a person has taken higher doses of the drug and is experiencing an overdose may consist of:

• fluctuations in heart rate
• seizures
• confusion
• impaired coordination
• respiratory depression
• loss of consciousness

As stated by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), those who have suffered a benzodiazepine overdose may be administered Flumazenil, a medication used to help treat overdose from benzodiazepines and sleep medications.

Polysubstance Use

A Halcion overdose may also be more likely to occur when the drug is combined with other substances such as:

• other benzodiazepines including diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), and lorazepam (Ativan)
• antidepressants
• stimulants
• antihistamines
• alcohol
• opioids

Snorting Halcion along with taking any other medication can dangerously slow the central nervous system and increase the risk of respiratory depression.

Halcion Addiction Treatment

If you or a loved one are struggling with prescription drug abuse, reach out to Ohio Recovery Center. At our treatment center, we provide numerous treatment options such as:

• medical detox
• inpatient care
• evidence-based practices
• aftercare support
• therapy options

Contact us today to learn more about our variety of treatment programs and the many services we provide which can assist you on the road to recovery.