Halcion Withdrawal and Detox
Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs that can cause dependence, and Halcion falls within that drug class. Benzodiazepines alter the functionality of GABA in the brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter that has a naturally calming effect. When someone has a deficiency of GABA, they may have neural overactivity. This can lead to anxiety, insomnia and similar conditions. The use of a benzodiazepine like Halcion can increase the effects of GABA and reduce the symptoms of overactivity. When the brain is constantly exposed to an artificial drug, it may start to work differently. For example, the brain can become so used to Halcion that it doesn’t make enough of its own GABA.

For people who misuse a prescription drug, especially for extended periods of time, withdrawal symptoms can be more severe and can last longer. Withdrawal symptoms reflect the body and brain trying to stabilize following the use of the drug and get back to a sense of homeostasis. Benzodiazepine withdrawal from drugs like Halcion can be severe, even more so than something like opioid withdrawal. Halcion withdrawal symptoms can include:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Depersonalization
- Hypersensitivity to stimuli
- Sleep disturbances
- Muscle aches and pains
- Headache
- Tremors
- Shakiness
- In severe cases psychosis and seizures are possible
When elderly patients are dependent on Halcion or benzodiazepines, the symptoms can be particularly concerning. Benzodiazepine dependence in patients can cause cognitive impairment and protracted withdrawal. There is even a condition called pseudo-dementia, which is a drug-induced condition stemming from benzodiazepines.
The primary risk factor for benzodiazepine dependence is use exceeding four weeks. With Halcion, it’s recommended that patients only take the medicine for a maximum of ten days. Other dependence risk factors include using high doses and using powerful, short-acting benzos, which Halcion is. Halcion dependence and withdrawal is similar in many ways to alcohol, including the risk of seizures.
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Medical Disclaimer: The Recovery Village aims to improve the quality of life for people struggling with a substance use or mental health disorder with fact-based content about the nature of behavioral health conditions, treatment options and their related outcomes. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider.
Seeking addiction treatment can feel overwhelming. We know the struggle, which is why we're uniquely qualified to help.
Your call is confidential, and there's no pressure to commit to treatment until you're ready. As a voluntary facility, we're here to help you heal -- on your terms. Our sole focus is getting you back to the healthy, sober life you deserve, and we are ready and waiting to answer your questions or concerns 24/7.
Speak to an Intake Coordinator now.352.771.2700