Trazodone

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Brand Name

Trazonil 50 Tablet , Trazonil 25mg Tablet 10s ... show more

Approved Treatment Indication:

Depressive Disorder, Sleep Initiation and Maintenance Disorders

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What conditions Trazodone is used for
Trazodone is used to treat depression and insomnia, which is trouble sleeping. It can also help with anxiety and chronic pain, which is long-lasting pain. Trazodone may be used alone or with other treatments, depending on your health needs.
How Trazodone works in the body
Trazodone works by affecting serotonin levels in the brain, which is a chemical that helps regulate mood and sleep. It blocks certain receptors and reuptake of serotonin, increasing its availability, which helps improve mood and sleep.
The usual dosages and routes of administration of Trazodone
The usual starting dose of Trazodone for adults is 150 mg per day, divided into smaller doses. It is usually taken once daily, often at bedtime, to help with sleep. You can take it with or without food, as prescribed by your doctor.
The most commonly observed adverse effects of Trazodone
Common side effects of Trazodone include dizziness, dry mouth, and drowsiness, which is feeling sleepy. These effects occur in more than 10% of users and are usually mild. If you experience new symptoms, talk with your doctor.
Important safety warnings and contraindications of Trazodone
Trazodone can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in young adults. It may cause serotonin syndrome, which is a serious condition with symptoms like confusion. Avoid using it with MAO inhibitors, which are a type of antidepressant. Always consult your doctor about your medical history before starting Trazodone.

Government Approvals

US(FDA), UK(BNF)

WHO Essential Medicine

Known Teratogen

Pharmaceutical Class

Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor

Controlled Drug Substance

Summary

What conditions Trazodone is used for
Trazodone is used to treat depression and insomnia, which is trouble sleeping. It can also help with anxiety and chronic pain, which is long-lasting pain. Trazodone may be used alone or with other treatments, depending on your health needs.
How Trazodone works in the body
Trazodone works by affecting serotonin levels in the brain, which is a chemical that helps regulate mood and sleep. It blocks certain receptors and reuptake of serotonin, increasing its availability, which helps improve mood and sleep.
The usual dosages and routes of administration of Trazodone
The usual starting dose of Trazodone for adults is 150 mg per day, divided into smaller doses. It is usually taken once daily, often at bedtime, to help with sleep. You can take it with or without food, as prescribed by your doctor.
The most commonly observed adverse effects of Trazodone
Common side effects of Trazodone include dizziness, dry mouth, and drowsiness, which is feeling sleepy. These effects occur in more than 10% of users and are usually mild. If you experience new symptoms, talk with your doctor.
Important safety warnings and contraindications of Trazodone
Trazodone can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in young adults. It may cause serotonin syndrome, which is a serious condition with symptoms like confusion. Avoid using it with MAO inhibitors, which are a type of antidepressant. Always consult your doctor about your medical history before starting Trazodone.

Indications and Purpose

How does Trazodone work?

Trazodone works by affecting serotonin levels in the brain, which is a chemical that helps regulate mood and sleep. It blocks certain receptors and reuptake of serotonin, increasing its availability. Think of it like adjusting the volume on a radio to get clearer sound. This action helps improve mood and sleep, making Trazodone effective for treating depression and insomnia.

Is Trazodone effective?

Yes, Trazodone is effective for treating depression and insomnia. It works by affecting serotonin levels in the brain, which can improve mood and help with sleep. Clinical studies show Trazodone significantly improves symptoms of depression and helps with sleep disturbances. Always follow your doctor's instructions and attend regular check-ups to monitor your progress and ensure the medication is working effectively for you.

What is Trazodone?

Trazodone is a medication used to treat depression and insomnia. It belongs to a class of drugs called serotonin modulators, which work by affecting serotonin levels in the brain to improve mood and help with sleep. Trazodone is also sometimes used for anxiety and chronic pain. It can be used alone or with other therapies, depending on your specific health needs.

Directions for Use

For how long do I take Trazodone?

Trazodone is usually used long-term for managing chronic conditions like depression or insomnia. The duration of use depends on your response to treatment and any side effects you experience. Your doctor will guide you on how long to take Trazodone based on your health needs. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your Trazodone treatment to ensure it's done safely.

How do I dispose of Trazodone?

Dispose of Trazodone by taking it to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. If that's not possible, you can throw it in the trash at home. First, mix it with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal it in a plastic bag, and then throw it away. This helps prevent accidental ingestion by children or pets.

How do I take Trazodone?

Take Trazodone as prescribed by your doctor. It's usually taken once daily, often at bedtime, to help with sleep. You can take it with or without food. If you have trouble swallowing pills, ask your doctor if you can crush it. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's close to your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once. Avoid alcohol while taking Trazodone, as it can increase side effects.

How long does it take for Trazodone to start working?

Trazodone starts working within a few hours, but it may take several weeks to achieve its full therapeutic effect. For sleep, you might notice improvements within a few days. For depression, it can take 2 to 4 weeks to see significant changes. Factors like your overall health and other medications can affect how quickly Trazodone works. Take it exactly as prescribed for the best results.

How should I store Trazodone?

Store Trazodone at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container to protect it from damage. Avoid storing it in humid places like bathrooms, as moisture can affect its effectiveness. If your pills aren't in child-resistant packaging, transfer them to a container that children can't easily open. Always keep Trazodone out of children's reach to prevent accidental ingestion.

What is the usual dose of Trazodone?

The usual starting dose of Trazodone for adults is 150 mg per day, divided into smaller doses. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your response and needs. The maximum recommended dose is 400 mg per day for outpatients and 600 mg per day for inpatients. For elderly patients, a lower starting dose may be used. Always follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions for your health needs.

Warnings and Precautions

Can I take Trazodone with other prescription drugs?

Trazodone can interact with other medications, increasing the risk of side effects. Combining Trazodone with MAO inhibitors, which are a type of antidepressant, can lead to serotonin syndrome, a serious condition. It can also interact with other sedatives, increasing drowsiness. Always inform your doctor about all medications you're taking to avoid harmful interactions and ensure your treatment is safe.

Can Trazodone be taken safely while breastfeeding?

The safety of Trazodone while breastfeeding is not well-established. It's unclear if Trazodone passes into breast milk or affects milk supply. Some studies suggest potential risks to the infant, but more research is needed. If you're breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about the safest treatment options. They can help you make an informed decision that protects both you and your baby.

Can Trazodone be taken safely while pregnant?

The safety of Trazodone during pregnancy is not well-established. Limited evidence makes it difficult to provide definitive advice. Some studies suggest potential risks to the fetus, but more research is needed. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest treatment options for your condition. They can help create a plan that protects both you and your baby.

Does Trazodone have adverse effects?

Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects of Trazodone include dizziness, dry mouth, and drowsiness. These occur in more than 10% of users. Serious side effects, like serotonin syndrome or suicidal thoughts, are rare but require immediate medical attention. If you notice any new or worsening symptoms, contact your doctor to discuss your treatment.

Does Trazodone have any safety warnings?

Yes, Trazodone has important safety warnings. It can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in young adults and children. It may cause serotonin syndrome, which is a serious condition with symptoms like confusion and rapid heart rate. Not following safety warnings can lead to severe health issues. Always take Trazodone as prescribed and report any unusual symptoms to your doctor immediately.

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Trazodone?

It's best to avoid alcohol while taking Trazodone. Alcohol can increase the sedative effects of Trazodone, leading to increased drowsiness and dizziness. This combination can impair your ability to perform tasks that require alertness, like driving. If you choose to drink, limit your intake and be aware of how your body responds. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while on Trazodone for personalized advice.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Trazodone?

Yes, you can exercise while taking Trazodone, but be cautious. Trazodone can cause dizziness or drowsiness, which might affect your balance and coordination during physical activity. Start with light exercises and see how your body responds. Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activities if you feel dizzy or lightheaded. If you have concerns about exercising while on Trazodone, consult your doctor for personalized advice.

Is it safe to stop Trazodone?

It's not safe to stop Trazodone suddenly. Doing so can cause withdrawal symptoms like anxiety, agitation, or sleep disturbances. Trazodone is often used long-term for conditions like depression or insomnia. If you need to stop, your doctor will guide you on how to gradually reduce your dose to minimize withdrawal effects. Always consult your doctor before making changes to your medication.

Is Trazodone addictive?

Trazodone is not considered addictive or habit-forming. It doesn't cause cravings or withdrawal symptoms typical of addictive substances. However, some people may experience psychological dependence, feeling they need the medication to sleep or feel better. To avoid dependence, use Trazodone only as prescribed by your doctor and discuss any concerns about its use.

Is Trazodone safe for the elderly?

Elderly individuals are more vulnerable to the side effects of Trazodone, such as dizziness and drowsiness, which can increase the risk of falls. Trazodone is generally safe for the elderly when used with caution and under a doctor's supervision. Dose adjustments may be necessary to minimize side effects. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is important to ensure safety and effectiveness.

What are the most common side effects of Trazodone?

Side effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common side effects of Trazodone include dizziness, dry mouth, and drowsiness, affecting more than 10% of users. These side effects are usually mild and may improve as your body adjusts to the medication. If you experience new symptoms after starting Trazodone, they might be temporary or unrelated. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication.

Who should avoid taking Trazodone?

Don't use Trazodone if you're allergic to it or its ingredients. It's contraindicated with MAO inhibitors, which are a type of antidepressant, due to the risk of serotonin syndrome, a serious condition. Caution is needed if you have heart problems, as Trazodone can affect heart rhythm. Always consult your doctor about your medical history before starting Trazodone to ensure it's safe for you.