Oral Sedation for Dental Anxiety

Triazolam (Halcion®) is a medication (in pill form) that can greatly minimize anxiety that might be associated with treatment with your endodontist. In a more relaxed state, you will be able to communicate with Dr. Horalek, while treatment is being performed. Even though triazolam (Halcion®) is relatively safe, effective, and is metabolized after the dental visit, you should be aware of some important precautions and considerations. Our team will review this with you prior to your appointment.

For more information about Regarding Oral Sedation or to schedule a consult with Dr. Horalek, please use our Appointment Request form or call our endodontic office in Raleigh, NC at North Raleigh Endodontics Office Phone Number 919-256-3996.

Side Effects

Side effects may include:

  • light-headedness
  • headache
  • dizziness
  • visual disturbances
  • amnesia
  • nausea

Oral Sedation and other Anesthetics

In some patients, oral triazolam may not work as desired. Smokers will probably notice a decrease in the effect of the drug.

Nitrous oxide (laughing gas) may be used in conjunction with triazolam. Local anesthetic is used with all treatment patients.

Dr. Horalek has a permit, issued by the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners, that is required to administer sedation techniques that fall under minimal conscious sedation.

Reasons To Not Use Oral Sedation

There are certain medical conditions in which triazolam should not be used:

  • during pregnancy or while breastfeeding
  • in a patient with advanced liver or kidney disease
  • in an individual who is hypersensitive or allergic to benzodiazapenes (Valium®, Ativan®, Versed®, etc.).

Be Aware of Possible Interactions With Some Medications

Tell Dr. Horalek if you are taking the following medications, as they can have a drug–drug interaction with triazolam:

  • nefazodone (Serzone®)
  • cimetidene
    (Tagamet®, Tagamet HB®, Novcimetine®, or Peptol®)
  • levodopa (Dopar® or Larodopa®) for Parkinson’s disease
  • antihistamines (such as Benadryl® and Tavist®)
  • verpamil (Calan®)
  • diltiazem (Cardizem®)
  • erythromycin and the azole antimycotics
    (i.e., ketoconazole, clarithromycin, or itraconazole or Nizoral®, Biaxin®, Sporanox®, respectively)
  • HIV drugs such as indinavir (CrixivanA®)
  • nelfinavir (ViraceptA®)
  • alcohol

Of course, taking recreational or illicit drugs can also cause adverse reactions. Please call our office if you have any questions: North Raleigh Endodontics Office Phone Number 919-256-3996.