What is Trazodone ?
Trazodone is an oral antidepressant medication that affects neurotransmitters in the brain. These neurotransmitters include acetylcholine, norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin.
Trazodone is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder by increasing mood, appetite, and energy levels, and decreasing anxiety and insomnia related to depression. It helps restore the balance of serotonin in the brain.
Trazodone Uses
Trazodone is used to treat depression and belongs to the class of medications known as serotonin modulators. It increases the amount of serotonin in the brain, helping maintain mental equilibrium. This medication improves mood, appetite, and energy levels while reducing depression-related anxiety and insomnia.
Trazodone Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Weakness
- Nervousness
- Dizziness
- Muscle pain
- Rash
- Sweating
- Itchy eyes
Serious Side Effects:
- Chest pain
- Irregular heartbeat
- Loss of consciousness
- Fainting
- Seizures
- Shortness of breath
If you experience any serious symptoms, contact your doctor immediately. Most people do not experience severe side effects. Seek medical help if any serious side effects occur.
Precautions
Before taking Trazodone, inform your doctor if you have any allergies or medical history, particularly:
- Bipolar disorder
- History of suicide attempts
- Heart disease
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Blood pressure issues
- Glaucoma
How to Take Trazodone
Trazodone is available as a tablet or extended-release tablet. Take the regular tablet with a meal or light snack two to three times a day. The extended-release tablet should be taken on an empty stomach at bedtime. Follow your doctor’s instructions closely. Do not chew or crush the extended-release tablets.
Your doctor may start you on a low dose and gradually increase it. Continue taking Trazodone even if you feel well. It may take up to two weeks or longer to feel the full benefits.
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Generic: Imipramine
- Form: Oral tablet
- Strengths: 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, 300 mg
Dosage for Major Depressive Disorder
- Adult dosage (ages 18+): Start with 150 mg per day in divided doses.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s close to your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Overdose
In case of overdose, seek emergency medical attention. Symptoms of overdose can include severe dizziness, fainting, or irregular heartbeat.
Warnings for Serious Health Conditions
Heart Disease: Trazodone may cause irregular heartbeat and prolonged QT interval. Your doctor will monitor you closely if you have heart issues.
Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Trazodone can enlarge the pupils and trigger an angle-closure attack.
History of Mania or Bipolar Disorder: Trazodone can increase the risk of psychotic episodes.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Limited human research exists. Animal studies show potential risks. Discuss with your doctor.
Breastfeeding: Trazodone can pass into breast milk and may affect the breastfed baby. Consult your doctor about breastfeeding while on this medication.
Storage
Store at room temperature (68ºF – 77ºF). Keep away from heat, light, and moisture. Store out of reach of children.
Trazodone vs. Amitriptyline
| Trazodone | Amitriptyline |
|---|---|
| Trazodone is an oral antidepressant that affects neurotransmitters in the brain. | Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant with sedative effects. |
| Used for treating depression by increasing serotonin levels. | Used for depression and mood improvement by affecting certain brain chemicals. |
| Common Side Effects: | Common Side Effects: |
| Headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, weakness | Nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, headaches, dry mouth |
Before starting Trazodone, consult your doctor. In case of side effects, seek immediate medical attention. Carry your medication when traveling for emergencies and follow your doctor’s instructions precisely.
