HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

What Are Trazodone, Triazolam And Alprazolam Prescribed For?

default
Posted on Fri, 9 Dec 2016
Question: I have just recently received from my doctor three medications that I would like some more information about them. 1. TRAZODONE 50 mgs; 2. Triazolam 0.25 mgs tablets and 3. Alprazolam 0.25 mgs.

I am 81 years old and wondering just why I have been prescribed these medications???

XXXXXXX XXXX, XXXXXXX

THANK YOU SO MUCH......
doctor
Answered by Dr. Olsi Taka (6 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Read below

Detailed Answer:
I read your question carefully and I understand your concern.

I must say I am a little puzzled by the use of those 3 drugs together. The first is an antidepressant while the other two are benzodiazepines. Trazodone is used in treatment of depression, anxiety, insomnia etc. Benzodiazepines have similar uses for anxiety and insomnia.

The reason I am puzzled is because the use of both triazolam and alprazolam doesn't make much sense to me as they belong to the same class, act in the same way. The combination of all three together also is a little dangerous as they all increase sedation which in someone your age may be a little dangerous as it predisposes to falls.
At times one benzodiazepine (but not 2) may be started with an antidepressant for a short time, since antidepressants may need some time to reach their effect, but afterwards the benzodiazepine should be interrupted, not recommended to be used for long term as they develop dependence and tolerance.

I remain at your disposal for other questions.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Olsi Taka

Neurologist

Practicing since :2004

Answered : 3673 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
What Are Trazodone, Triazolam And Alprazolam Prescribed For?

Brief Answer: Read below Detailed Answer: I read your question carefully and I understand your concern. I must say I am a little puzzled by the use of those 3 drugs together. The first is an antidepressant while the other two are benzodiazepines. Trazodone is used in treatment of depression, anxiety, insomnia etc. Benzodiazepines have similar uses for anxiety and insomnia. The reason I am puzzled is because the use of both triazolam and alprazolam doesn't make much sense to me as they belong to the same class, act in the same way. The combination of all three together also is a little dangerous as they all increase sedation which in someone your age may be a little dangerous as it predisposes to falls. At times one benzodiazepine (but not 2) may be started with an antidepressant for a short time, since antidepressants may need some time to reach their effect, but afterwards the benzodiazepine should be interrupted, not recommended to be used for long term as they develop dependence and tolerance. I remain at your disposal for other questions.