What Is Trazodone?

Trazodone is an antidepressant medication commonly prescribed to treat major depressive disorder (MDD). It works by helping balance serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood, sleep, and emotional well-being. Trazodone belongs to the drug class known as serotonin antagonists and reuptake inhibitors (SARIs).

In addition to its antidepressant benefits, Trazodone is also known for its calming and sleep-supportive effects, which is why many doctors prescribe it for conditions involving anxiety or insomnia.

How Trazodone Works

Trazodone increases serotonin activity in the brain by:

• Blocking certain serotonin receptors

• Slowing serotonin reuptake

This helps improve mood, reduce anxiety, and promote better sleep quality.

Common Uses of Trazodone

FDA-approved use:

• Major depressive disorder

Common off-label uses (doctor-directed):

• Anxiety symptoms

• Sleep disturbances

• Post-traumatic stress symptoms

• Fibromyalgia discomfort

• Alcohol withdrawal symptoms

• Panic-related symptoms

Off-label use should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Possible Side Effects

Like many medications, Trazodone may cause side effects, including:

• Drowsiness or dizziness

• Dry mouth or altered taste

• Constipation

• Blurred or altered vision

• Headache

• Sweating or fever

• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

• Confusion or hallucinations (rare)

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as:

• Swelling of the face, lips, or limbs

• Hives

• Severe difficulty breathing

How to Take Trazodone

Immediate-Release Tablets

• Typical starting dose: 150 mg per day, divided into smaller doses

• The dose may be increased by 50 mg every 3–4 days

• Maximum daily dose:

  • 400 mg/day for outpatients

  • 600 mg/day for hospitalized patients

• Take after a meal or snack for better tolerance

Extended-Release Tablets

• Initial dose: 150 mg once daily

• Dose may be increased by 75 mg every 3 days

• Maximum daily dose: 375 mg

• Usually taken at night on an empty stomach

Follow your doctor’s exact dosage schedule.

Missed Dose

• Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.

• Skip the missed dose if your next one is soon.

• Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical care immediately.

Warnings & Precautions

Use Trazodone cautiously if you have:

• Kidney or liver disease

• Heart rhythm disorders

• Seizure history or epilepsy

• Bipolar disorder

• Glaucoma

• Recent alcohol intake

• Allergy to Trazodone or similar medications

Trazodone may interact with certain medications, including:

• Ondansetron

• Macrolide antibiotics (azithromycin, erythromycin, clarithromycin)

• Other antidepressants

Always inform your doctor about all medicines or supplements you are taking.