Trazodone

Uses of Trazodone

Trazodone is primarily prescribed to treat depression. It belongs to a class of medications called serotonin modulators, which function by elevating the brain’s serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter that helps maintain mental balance.

Precautions and Warnings

Before taking trazodone, it’s important to inform your doctor if you are allergic to trazodone or any other medications. Additionally, inform your doctor about any medications, vitamins, or supplements you are currently taking, especially monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or other medications that may interact with trazodone. 

Trazodone may cause dizziness and drowsiness and affect judgment, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. It may also cause angle-closure glaucoma, so those with eye conditions should discuss this with their doctor.

Dosage

Trazodone dosage varies depending on the individual’s condition and response to treatment. Typically, the initial dosage for depression is 150 mg daily, divided into smaller doses taken throughout the day. Your doctor may gradually increase the dosage, not more than once every 3 to 4 days, based on your response. The maximum recommended dosage is usually around 400 mg per day. 

Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Weakness
• Tiredness
• Dizziness 

Severe side effects: 

• Chest pain
• Irregular heartbeat
• Loss of consciousness
• Fever
• Sweating
• Shortness of breath