MORE HALCION STUDIES RECOMMENDED TO FDA

Federal health advisers recommended more studies on the tranquilizer
Halcion on Thursday but said the drug is safe when used as advised.

A U.S. Food and Drug Administration advisory panel said it supported an
Institute of Medicine study finding Pharmacia 7 Upjohn's sedative Halcion
(triazolam) is safe and effective at the recommended dose and duration of
use.

They noted the drug is clearly often being used for longer than
recommended, and suggested more studies were needed into its longterm
effects. The panel also said it would be useful to have studies of lower
doses.

The advisory group said many questions about Halcion also applied to other
sedatives and antipsychotic drugs.