Compare triazolam vs. Sonata

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, ratings, and more.

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Halcion (triazolam)

Prescription only

Sonata (zaleplon)

Prescription only
Helps you stay asleep.

Halcion (triazolam) can be used to help you fall asleep, but your body can become used to it very quickly.

Helps you fall sleep.

Sonata (zaleplon) aids in falling asleep, but it's not as good with helping you stay asleep or with waking up in the middle of the night.

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2.9/ 5 average rating with 175 reviewsforSonata
Upsides
  • Halcion (triazolam) is available as a generic.
  • Compared to other similar medicines, you're less likely to have a hangover effect from Halcion (triazolam) the next day.
  • Effectively helps people fall asleep faster.
  • Doesn't last as long in the body like some other sleep medicines, so it may cause less side effects the next morning.
  • Generic is available, so it's affordable.
Downsides
  • Your body can get used to Halcion (triazolam) after 2 weeks.
  • Stopping Halcion (triazolam) suddenly can make your insomnia worse. Talk to your doctor if you want to stop taking it.
  • People who take Halcion (triazolam) can have more anxiety during the day.
  • Not typically used for long-term treatment because it can be habit-forming and hasn't been shown to be effective for chronic insomnia.
  • Doesn't last as long in the body as other sleep medicines, so it's not as good at helping you stay asleep.
  • Not recommended if you can't sleep at least 7-8 hours a night.
  • Might not be safe if you have problems with your liver, kidneys, lungs, or if you have a history of depression.
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Used for
Dosage forms
  • Pill
  • Pill
Price
Lowest price
$13.00
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Lowest price
$15.68
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Reviews
Not enough review data.Leave a review
175 reviews so far
42%
saidit'sworth it
23%
saiditworked well
27%
saidit'sa big hassle

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Side effects
7possible side effects
  • Drowsiness
    14%
  • Headache
    10%
  • Dizziness
    8%
  • Nervousness
    5%
  • Nausea and vomiting
    5%
  • Difficulty controlling movements
    5%
  • Lightheadedness
    5%
See more detailed side effects
18possible side effects
  • Headache
    42%
  • Dizziness
    9%
  • Nausea
    8%
  • Lack of energy
    7%
  • Abdominal pain
    6%
  • Sleepiness
    6%
  • Memory problems
    4%
  • Menstrual cramps
    4%
  • Burning/prickling sensation
    3%
  • Eye pain
    3%
  • Malaise
    2%
  • Loss of appetite
    2%
  • Feelings of detachment
    2%
  • Decreased touch sensations
    2%
  • Tremor
    2%
  • Abnormal vision
    2%
  • Increased sensitivity to sound
    2%
  • Smell disorder
    2%
See more detailed side effects
Risks and risk factors
  • Tolerance and addiction
    • Using Halcion (triazolam) for more than 10 days
  • Behavior changes
  • Hangover effect
    • People age 65 or older
  • Memory loss
    • Drinking alcohol
    • Not allowing enough time for sleep
See more detailed risks and warnings
  • Dependence and withdrawal
    • Continuous use of Sonata (zaleplon) for 2 weeks or more
  • Hangover feeling the next day
    • Alcohol
    • Taking other medications that make you less alert
    • Less than 7 hours of sleep
  • CNS depressants and abnormal thoughts
    • Undiagnosed psychiatric conditions
  • Performing activities while asleep
    • Taking Sonata (zaleplon) with alcohol or drugs that cause drowsiness
  • Serious allergic reactions
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding
    • Women of childbearing age
    • Breastfeeding
See more detailed risks and warnings
Learn more about Halcion (triazolam)
Learn more about Sonata (zaleplon)