Indications
- Trazodone is used to treat depression.
- Works by restoring balance of serotonin in the brain.
Dosage and administration
- Read Medication Guide before using trazodone, consult doctor or pharmacist with any questions.
- Take orally after a meal or snack as directed by doctor, usually once or twice daily.
- If drowsiness is an issue with once daily dosing, take at bedtime; for twice daily dosing, consider bedtime for one dose.
- Follow doctor’s instructions carefully; dosage based on medical condition and response to treatment.
- Doctor may start with low dose and gradually increase to reduce risk of side effects.
- Take exactly as prescribed; don’t increase dose or frequency.
- Continue even if feeling well; take at same time(s) daily.
- Don’t stop suddenly without consulting doctor; may cause anxiety, agitation, trouble sleeping.
- Full effects may take 2 to 4 weeks; inform doctor if condition persists or worsens.
Side effects
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, drowsiness, dizziness, tiredness, blurred vision, changes in weight, headache, muscle ache/pain, dry mouth, bad taste in mouth, stuffy nose, constipation, change in sexual interest/ability may occur.
- To relieve dry mouth, use sugarless hard candy, ice chips, chew sugarless gum, drink water, or use saliva substitute.
- To reduce dizziness and lightheadedness, rise slowly from sitting or lying position.
- Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
- Tell doctor immediately if experiencing shaking (tremors), nightmares, ringing in ears, urination problems, blood in urine, signs of infection, shortness of breath, abdominal pain.
- Get medical help immediately if experiencing chest/jaw/left arm pain, fainting, fast/irregular heartbeat, seizures, eye pain/swelling/redness, widened pupils, vision changes, symptoms of serotonin syndrome/toxicity.
- Rarely, males may experience painful/prolonged erection lasting 4 or more hours; seek immediate medical help.
- Get medical help immediately if symptoms of serious allergic reaction occur.
- This is not a complete list of possible side effects; contact doctor or pharmacist for any unlisted effects.
Precautions
- Inform the doctor immediately about worsening depression or psychiatric conditions.
- Report any unusual behavior changes, including suicidal thoughts or attempts.
- Note any new or worsening mental or mood changes, such as anxiety or irritability.
- Be vigilant for these symptoms when starting a new antidepressant or adjusting the dosage.