Trazodone is a hydrochloride pill that is an FDA-approved medication and is commonly used to treat major depressive disorder in individuals. Dosages and uses vary by case and individual needs. Always consult a physician before taking trazodone, since it can result in adverse effects when combined with other medications.

Read through this guide to learn more about trazodone, its uses, its side effects, and any risks associated with taking it.

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What Is Trazodone?

Trazodone is a serotonin modulator that is often prescribed to individuals struggling with depression symptoms. It can also be prescribed as a sleep aid in some instances, or to treat schizophrenia or dementia.

Trazodone helps correct imbalances of the natural chemical serotonin in the brain, which can provide relief from a number of symptoms associated with depression including loss of interest, anxiety, fatigue, insomnia, and overall improved mood.

This drug belongs to a group of drugs called serotonin receptor antagonists and reuptake inhibitors (SARIs), and is not technically included in the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) drug class. However, it does perform very similarly to SSRI drugs, and can be instrumental in treating major depressive disorder.

How Does Trazodone Hydrochloride Work?

Trazodone works by increasing levels of serotonin and noradrenaline in your body to help boost mood and even improve sleep. It usually takes up to two weeks to work, but it can also take up to six weeks for an individual to feel the full effects of trazodone.

What Are Trazodone Brand Names?

Trazodone is available under different brand names, including Desyrel, Oleptro, Desyrel Dividose, Trittico, Trazodone D, or Molipaxin.

What Does Trazodone Look Like?

Trazodone comes in three different forms: tablets, capsules, and liquid. The most common form is tablets. These tablets are characterized by their white, oval appearance, but they can also be circular tablets, and they usually have the dosage stamped into them.

Trazodone Uses

Trazodone is commonly used to treat depression, however, a prescribing doctor may use it to treat other conditions like anxiety and insomnia. This medication helps primarily with depression with anxiety and insomnia often co-occurring with it, which can both be alleviated with this drug.

Trazodone is also known to help aid in restoring appetite, mood, and energy levels which are also common symptoms individuals with depression experience. This drug helps to treat an array of symptoms related to depression by improving the balance of the naturally occurring chemical serotonin in the brain. Many people with depression have an imbalance of this chemical, and Trazodone can help correct this imbalance.

Common Trazodone Dosages

Trazodone dosages are determined by a doctor or psychiatrist. The most common trazodone dosage to treat depression is 150mg, while trazodone for sleep is prescribed at doses in between 25mg and 100mg. Tablets typically come in 50mg, 100mg, and 150mg. Capsules come in 50mg and 100mg strengths, and the liquid version typically has 10mg or 20mg for every 1 ml of liquid. Dosages typically do not exceed the maximum of 400 mg except in rare cases. The following are other common trazodone dosages:

• Trazodone 25 mg – This is the lowest dosage, and individuals usually use a pill cutter or take the liquid version of trazodone to get this small dose.
• Trazodone 50mg – This dosage can either be prescribed for sleep or depression.
• Trazodone 100mg tablet – This is a common dose of trazodone for depression.
• Trazodone 150 mg – Trazodone 150 mg is the most common dosage prescribed.

Taking trazodone on an empty stomach can usually cause dizziness, which is why trazodone dosages are typically recommended to be taken with food; for the extended-release version of trazodone, an individual can take it without food before going to sleep.

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Trazodone Side Effects

Trazodone can be helpful in treating depression and other conditions, but like all medications, Trazodone can cause side effects. Knowing what these side effects are can help you understand what to expect and when to talk to your doctor. These side effects differ by individual and should be monitored in case they become a serious issue or interfere with daily life. If this is the case, speaking to a healthcare provider is the next best step.

Common Side Effects of Trazodone

Some side effects of Trazodone are common and might happen to many people who take the medication. These side effects are usually mild and tend to go away after a few days or weeks. Common side effects include:

• Drowsiness: Many people feel very sleepy when they take trazodone. This is one reason why it is often used to help with sleep problems.
• Dizziness: You might feel lightheaded or unsteady when you stand up quickly.
• Dry mouth: Your mouth might feel dry, making it hard to talk or eat.
• Nausea: Some people feel sick to their stomach when they first start taking trazodone.
• Headaches: You might get more headaches than usual.
• Blurred vision: Things might look a bit fuzzy or unclear.

If these side effects are mild, they might go away on their own. But if they are bothersome or don’t go away, it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor.

What Are the Long-Term Side Effects of Trazodone?

Taking trazodone for a long time can lead to some side effects that you should be aware of. Long-term use means using the medication for several months or even years. Some long-term effects of trazadone include:

• Weight gain: Some people might gain weight over time when taking this medication.
• Memory problems: It might be harder to remember things.
• Heart issues: Trazodone can affect your heart, sometimes causing an irregular heartbeat.
• Hormonal changes: Long-term use can sometimes affect hormones, leading to issues like changes in menstrual cycles for women.
• Mood swings: You might experience changes in your mood, feeling very happy one moment and very sad the next.
• Tremors: Some people might develop shakes or tremors in their hands or other parts of the body.

If you notice any of these long-term side effects, discuss them with your doctor. They can help you manage these side effects or decide if you need to switch to a different medication.

Trazodone Female Side Effects

Women might experience some side effects of trazodone differently than men. Here are some side effects that are specific to women:

• Menstrual changes: Trazodone can sometimes cause changes in your menstrual cycle, making periods more irregular or heavier.
• Hormonal imbalance: It can affect hormones, leading to symptoms like hot flashes or changes in mood.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking trazodone. It can affect the baby, so your doctor will need to decide if it’s safe for you to take.

It’s essential for women to talk to their doctors about any changes they notice while taking trazodone, especially if they are related to their menstrual cycle or overall hormonal health.

Trazodone Side Effects Sexually

Trazodone can also affect your sexual health. Both men and women might notice changes in their sexual desire or performance. Here are some common sexual side effects:

• Decreased libido: You might not feel as interested in sex as you usually do.
• Erectile dysfunction: Men might find it difficult to get or keep an erection.
• Delayed orgasm: Both men and women might take longer to reach orgasm.
• Painful erections: In rare cases, men might experience priapism, which is a painful, long-lasting erection. This needs immediate medical attention.

If you notice any changes in your sexual health while taking trazodone, don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor. They can help you manage these side effects or suggest different treatments.

If you experience any side effects while taking trazodone, there are some things you can do to help manage them:

• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help with dry mouth and prevent dehydration.
• Take it at night: If trazodone makes you sleepy, taking it before bed can help you avoid feeling drowsy during the day.
• Eat small meals: If you feel nauseous, eating small, frequent meals might help.
• Get up slowly: To avoid dizziness, try standing up slowly and holding onto something stable if you feel unsteady.
• Stay active: Light exercise can help improve your mood and reduce some side effects like weight gain.

Always talk to your doctor before making any changes to how you take your medication. They can give you the best advice on how to manage side effects and ensure that trazodone is safe for you.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following:

• Severe side effects: If you have serious side effects like chest pain, difficulty breathing, or severe dizziness, seek medical help right away.
• Allergic reactions: Symptoms like swelling, rash, or difficulty breathing can be signs of an allergic reaction.
• Mental health changes: If you feel more depressed, anxious, or have thoughts of harming yourself, contact your doctor immediately.
• Long-term side effects: If you notice any long-term side effects, such as heart issues or hormonal changes, discuss them with your doctor.

Trazodone Warnings, Risks, & Precautions

Like most medications, taking trazodone should always be taken with caution in case it interacts with your body negatively, or has adverse reactions to other supplements or medications you are taking. Stay informed on what to be cautious of when taking trazodone.

Interactions With Other Substances

Trazodone may have adverse effects when mixed with other substances, such as different prescriptions, drugs, or alcohol. These effects can lead to increased severity of side effects or the risk of overdose.

Click here to learn more about trazodone interactions with other substances.

Taking Trazodone Without a Prescription

Never take trazodone without a prescription. Trazodone can cause toxic doses in other medications, hinder the effectiveness of other medications, or cause other interactions that could put your health and well-being in jeopardy if taken without a prescription. If you are interested in taking trazodone, consult your physician.

Addiction Risk Factors

Trazodone is generally considered safe, and there is no evidence that indicates it is addictive. However, trazodone addiction can still occur. Trazodone also has withdrawal effects if you stop taking it suddenly.

Trazodone Overdose & Misuse

While generally safe when used as directed, Trazodone can cause overdose symptoms if misused, improperly prescribed, or when combined with medications that shouldn’t be mixed. Those struggling with trazodone misuse should reach out to an accredited addiction treatment center or counselor for help. Those who overuse or abuse the drug are at risk for trazodone overdose, which can be extremely dangerous.

Symptoms of Trazodone Overdose

If you have taken too much trazodone, get medical assistance right away or call 911. Trazodone overdose can lead to long-term physiological conditions or even death in rare cases. Signs of a trazodone overdose include difficulty or ceased breathing, chest pain, slow heart rate, coma, or lack of coordination.

Dangers of Abusing Trazodone

If you misuse trazodone, such as taking it without a prescription or taking more than the prescribed dosage, you could experience the above-listed overdose symptoms.

Get Compassionate Substance Abuse Help at Gratitude Lodge’s Treatment Centers

If you or a loved one is struggling with substance abuse, including misusing or overdosing on trazodone, reach out to Gratitude Lodge in Southern California. Our addiction treatment facility is one of the best ones in the state; we’re renowned for our science-backed treatment, insurance-covered therapies, luxurious amenities, and compassionate staff.

Every individual undergoes different struggles with addiction, which is why we tailor each treatment program to an individual’s needs. Some of our therapies include:

• Talk therapy
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Sources

1. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a681038.html
2. https://nctr-crs.fda.gov/fdalabel/services/spl/set-ids/094ca37b-3ae2-4889-9536-e7e5f20e3105/spl-doc?hl=trazodone
3. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8583742/