MedDataToolTrazodone is a medication used to treat major depressive disorder in adults. It works by helping to balance certain chemicals in the brain that affect mood. You typically start with a dose of 150 mg taken in divided doses each day, which can be increased by 50 mg every few days, with a maximum of 400 mg per day. It's important to take it shortly after a meal and swallow the tablets whole or break them in half, but don’t chew or crush them. A key warning is that trazodone should not be taken if you have recently used monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), as this can lead to serious side effects.
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Uses
- major depressive disorder (MDD).
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Dosage
Starting dose is 150 mg daily in divided doses.
May increase by 50 mg every 3 to 4 days.
Maximum dose is 400 mg daily in divided doses.
Take shortly after a meal or light snack.
Tablets can be swallowed whole or broken in half.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
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Side effects
Common
Common side effects include drowsinessfatigueand blurred visionOther common effects are diarrheanasal congestionand weight lossWatch for signs of increased bleeding risk
Serious
Serious side effects include suicidal thoughts and serotonin syndromeMay cause cardiac arrhythmias and priapism
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Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Increased risk of suicidal thoughts in young adults.
- Not approved for use in pediatric patients.
- Monitor for worsening depression or suicidal thoughts.
- Avoid use with MAOIs within 14 days.
- Caution with drugs that affect serotonin levels.
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Drug interactions
- Alcoholmay enhance sedation effectsCaution
- Warfarinmonitor for bleeding riskMonitor
- Digoxinmay increase serum levelsCaution
- Phenytoinmay increase serum levelsCaution
- CYP3A4 inhibitorsmay increase trazodone levels.Caution
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Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).