Halcion is another brand name for a sedative-hypnotic medication called triazolam. Like Ambien, Halcion is commonly prescribed to help treat insomnia. It works by enhancing the effects of GABA in the brain to promote sleep. Halcion is known for its rapid onset of action, and its effects can be felt within 15-30 minutes after taking it orally. It is a short-acting medication, with a half-life of around 2-3 hours, meaning that it is quickly eliminated from the body. This can be beneficial for individuals who have difficulty falling asleep but do not have difficulty maintaining sleep throughout the night.