Triazolam (CED0004723)

Triazolam belongs to the 1,4-benzodiazepines, a subclass of benzodiazepines within the organic compounds. This exogenous compound has the formula C17H12Cl2N4 and an average molecular weight of 343.21 g/mol. At room temperature, it exists as a solid. It is used as a sedative and is found in healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and veterinary products as a hypnotic and sedative. Other recorded sources include food preservation, building and construction materials such as tents, canopies, and ceilings, electrical and electronic equipment including antennas, electrodes, and electrically stimulated smoking devices, and household cleaning and consumer products including perfumes within detergents and soaps, pipe accessories, and cigar cigarettes. The recorded exposure route is oral. Triazolam targets 22 proteins, including the translocator protein (TSPO) and gamma-aminobutyric acid receptor subunits alpha-1 (GABRA1), alpha-2 (GABRA2), alpha-3 (GABRA3), and alpha-4 (GABRA4), among 17 other proteins. Benzodiazepines bind nonspecifically to benzodiazepine receptors BNZ1, which mediates sleep, and BNZ2, which affects muscle relaxation, anticonvulsant activity, motor coordination, and memory. Because benzodiazepine receptors are thought to be coupled to gamma-aminobutyric acid-A (GABAA) receptors, this enhances the effects of GABA by increasing GABA affinity for the GABA receptor. Binding of GABA to the site opens the chloride channel, resulting in a hyperpolarized cell membrane that prevents further excitation of the cell.