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.
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