Trazodone is a prescription medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as serotonin modulators. It primarily acts as an antidepressant and is also used for its sedative properties. Trazodone works by influencing the activity of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects mood, sleep, and behavior.
Uses of Trazodone
- Treatment of Depression
Trazodone is commonly prescribed for major depressive disorder (MDD). It helps improve mood, increase energy levels, and reduce anxiety associated with depression. - Treatment of Insomnia
Due to its sedative effects, trazodone is often used off-label to treat insomnia. It helps individuals fall asleep and stay asleep longer. - Anxiety Disorders
Trazodone may be prescribed to manage symptoms of anxiety, especially when anxiety coexists with depression or sleep disturbances. - Chronic Pain Management
In some cases, trazodone is used as an adjunctive treatment for chronic pain conditions, as it can improve sleep quality, which indirectly helps pain management. - Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Trazodone is sometimes used off-label to treat sleep disturbances or nightmares associated with PTSD.
Who Should not Use Trazodone?
Allergies to Ingredients. People who are allergic to any of the following should not use trazodone.
- Trazodone
- Any of the ingredients in the specific product dispensed
Your pharmacist can tell you all of the ingredients in the specific trazodone products they stock.
Drug Interactions. Trazodone should not be taken while you are using certain other medicines. Before taking trazodone, tell your healthcare provider about any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, vitamins/minerals, herbal products, and other supplements you are using. See the Interactions section for more details.