.
Triazolam is used for the short-term treatment of insomnia, and is in a family of drugs known as benzodiazepines.
Interactions with Dietary Supplements
Melatonin
A preliminary study showed that taking melatonin and triazolam together produces better
quality of sleep than occurs when the drug is taken alone. The results also indicated that
less triazolam is needed when melatonin and triazolam are taken together, which might reduce
side effects such as morning grogginess.1 Additional research is needed to
determine whether individuals taking triazolam should also take melatonin.
Vinpocetine
In a preliminary trial, an extract of periwinkle called vinpocetine was shown to produce minor
improvements in short-term memory among people taking flunitrazepam, a
benzodiazepine.2 Further study is needed to determine if vinpocetine would be a
helpful adjunct to use of benzodiazepines, or triazolam specifically.
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Grapefruit juice
Drinking grapefruit juice with triazolam dramatically increases the amount of drug absorbed
and the amount of time it stays in the body.3 Though the clinical significance of
this interaction is unknown, some people may experience increased side effects, such as
morning grogginess, dizziness, and poor coordination. Therefore, people taking triazolam
should probably avoid drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit for the duration of
therapy.
Alcohol
Drinking alcoholic beverages while taking triazolam may enhance side effects such as
drowsiness, confusion, and dizziness.4 Consequently, people taking triazolam should
avoid drinking alcohol, especially when they must stay alert.
Summary of Interactions for Triazolam
| Depletion or interference | None known |
|---|---|
| Adverse interaction | Alcohol Grapefruit juice |
| Side effect reduction/prevention | None known |
| Supportive interaction | Melatonin Vinpocetine* |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability | None known |
For the convenience of the reader, the information in the summary is categorized as follows: “Depletion or interference” indicates the drug may deplete or interfere with the absorption or function of the supplement or herb. “Adverse interaction” indicates that the supplement or herb used together with the drug may result in undesirable effects. “Side effect reduction/prevention” indicates the supplement or herb may reduce the likelihood and/or severity of a potential side effect caused by the drug. “Supportive interaction” indicates the supplement or herb may support or aid the function of the drug. “Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability” indicates that the supplement or herb may decrease the absorption and/or activity of the drug in the body. An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
References:
1. Ferini-Strambi L, Zucconi M, Biella G, et al. Effect of melatonin on sleep microstructure: preliminary results in healthy subjects. Sleep 1993;16:744–7..
2. Bhatti JZ, Hindmarch I. Vinpocetine effects on cognitive impairments produced by flunitrazepam. Int Clin Psychopharmacol 1987;2:325–31.
3. Sifton DW, ed. Physicians’ Desk Reference. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 2000, 2461–3.
4. Sifton DW, ed. Physicians’ Desk Reference. Montvale, NJ: Medical Economics Company, Inc., 2000, 2461–3
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The information presented in VitaminLore is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications.