Double-blind crossover comparison of triazolam and lorazepam in the posthypnotic state.

A double-blind crossover study compared the hypnotic effect, daytime carryover, and safety of triazolam 0.5 mg, lorazepam 2 mg, and placebo. The two active drugs were similar in hypnotic effect and superior to placebo. Patients reported more drowsiness upon awakening and more sleepiness in mid-morning and mid-afternoon after nights on lorazepam than nights on triazolam or placebo. The most common side effects--drowsiness, lightheadedness, restlessness, impaired coordination, dizziness, and nausea--were reported three times as often with lorazepam than with triazolam or placebo.