Triazolam (Halcion) is a medication that can greatly minimize anxiety that may be associated with going to the dentist.  In a relaxed state, you will be able to communicate with the dentist while treatment is being performed.  Even though it is safe, effective and wears off rapidly after the dental visit, you should be aware of some important precautions and considerations: 

• The onset of Halcion is 15-30 minutes.  Do not drive after you have taken the medication.  The peak effect is between 1-2 hours.  After that time it starts wearing off, and most people feel normal after 6-8 hours.  For safety reasons you should not operate machinery for the remainder of the day.

• This medication should not be used if you:
  • are hypersensitive to benzodiazepines (Valium, Ativan, Versed, etc)
  • are pregnant or breast feeding
  • have liver or kidney disease

• Tell the dentist if you are taking the following medications as they may adversely interact with Halcion:
  • Nefazondone (Serzone)
  • Cimetidine (Tagamet HB, Novocimetine, or Peptol)
  • Levodopa (Dopar or Larodopa)
  • Antihistamines (Benadryl)
  • Verapamil (Calan)
  • Diltiazem (Cardizem)
  • Erythromycin
  • HIV drugs (Indinavir)
  • Alcohol
     
• Side effects may include light-headedness, dizziness, visual disturbances or amnesia
• You should not eat heavily prior to the appointment.  You may take the medication with a small amount of food such as juice, toast, etc.  Taking it with too much food can make absorption into your system unpredictable. 
• No alcohol should be consumed 24 hours prior to the appointment. 
• You should refrain from smoking 24 hours prior to the appointment, if you are having an extraction(s). 
• Please wear comfortable loose fitting clothing
• Please advise the dentist of any changes in your medical condition (eg. new medication, pregnancy or recent illness) prior to commencement of the procedure
• Patients are to arrive 1 hour prior to surgery appointment.  Halcion will be taken at that time under our supervision.
• Patients must arrange for a responsible adult to bring them to their appointment, remain with them at the office until the completion of their appointment, then take them home and remain with them until the sedation has worn off.  Please park on the lower level of the mall near the food court.