Trazodone
Generic Name: Trazodone
Uses & Medical Indications
Treatment of major depressive disorder
Depression, Insomnia (off-label)
Work Mechanism & Pharmacology
Patient Overview of Work Mechanism
Trazodone works at the cellular level to correct underlying biochemical imbalances, reduce clinical symptoms, and support overall health.
Clinical Mechanism of Action (MoA)
Trazodone exerts targeted therapeutic activity by interacting with specific cellular receptors, enzymatic pathways, or biological signaling cascades to relieve symptoms and restore physiological balance.
Dosage & Administration Guidelines
150 mg/day in divided doses initially; for insomnia often 50-100 mg at bedtime
Not approved for pediatric use
Start low (e.g., 25-50 mg/day) and titrate slowly
400 mg/day (outpatient), 600 mg/day (inpatient)
No adjustment provided
Use with caution
Side Effects & Safety Warnings
Somnolence, dizziness, dry mouth, blurred vision
Priapism, QT prolongation, serotonin syndrome, suicidal ideation
Concomitant use with MAOIs
Suicidality warning for children and young adults
Interactions (Drugs, Food & Alcohol)
MAOIs, CYP3A4 inhibitors/inducers, CNS depressants, serotonergic drugs
Take after a meal or a light snack
Increases CNS depression
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety
Use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk
Use with caution
Patient Counseling & Practical Advice
Take after a meal. Men should seek immediate medical help for prolonged erection (>4 hours).
Take as soon as remembered. Do not double doses.
Mental status, suicidal thoughts, heart rate, blood pressure
When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Seek immediate emergency medical care (call emergency services or proceed to the nearest emergency department) if you experience signs of a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis: facial, lip, tongue, or throat swelling causing airway obstruction), severe cutaneous blistering with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose.
Content for Trazodone was synthesized from standardized public health monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and health authorities:
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) — National List of Essential Medicines
- World Health Organization (WHO) — Model List of Essential Medicines
- Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) — Indian Pharmacopoeia Drug Monographs
- National Health Service (NHS) — Medicines A to Z Clinical Guidelines
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.