Trusted, medically reviewed health information • Not a substitute for medical advice
Medically Verified MonographPrescription OnlyClass: Serotonin Modulators

Trazodone

Generic Name: Trazodone

Common Brand Names: Desyrel, Oleptro
Dosage Form:Tablet
Route:Oral
Pregnancy Category:C
Last Reviewed:9/21/2026

Seek Urgent Medical Attention If:

You experience severe allergic reaction symptoms (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat causing difficulty breathing), severe rash with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose. Call emergency medical services immediately.

Uses & Medical Indications

Treatment of major depressive disorder

Medical Conditions Treated:

Depression, Insomnia (off-label)

Dosage & Administration Guidelines

Adult Dosage

150 mg/day in divided doses initially; for insomnia often 50-100 mg at bedtime

Pediatric Dosage

Not approved for pediatric use

Elderly / Geriatric Considerations

Start low (e.g., 25-50 mg/day) and titrate slowly

Maximum Dose Limit

400 mg/day (outpatient), 600 mg/day (inpatient)

Renal Impairment:

No adjustment provided

Hepatic Impairment:

Use with caution

Side Effects & Safety Warnings

Common Side Effects

Somnolence, dizziness, dry mouth, blurred vision

Serious Adverse Reactions

Priapism, QT prolongation, serotonin syndrome, suicidal ideation

Contraindications:

Concomitant use with MAOIs

Important Warnings & Precautions:

Suicidality warning for children and young adults

Interactions (Drugs, Food & Alcohol)

Drug-Drug Interactions:

MAOIs, CYP3A4 inhibitors/inducers, CNS depressants, serotonergic drugs

Food & Dietary Interactions:

Take after a meal or a light snack

Alcohol Interaction Warning:

Increases CNS depression

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety

Pregnancy Safety

Use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk

Breastfeeding / Lactation

Use with caution

Patient Counseling & Practical Advice

How to Take:

Take after a meal. Men should seek immediate medical help for prolonged erection (>4 hours).

What to Do if You Miss a Dose:

Take as soon as remembered. Do not double doses.

Recommended Monitoring & Lab Tests:

Mental status, suicidal thoughts, heart rate, blood pressure

Trustworthy Sources & Medical Review

Content for Trazodone was synthesized and fact-checked against standardized regulatory monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and national health authorities:

  • Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) — National List of Essential Medicines
  • World Health Organization (WHO) — Model List of Essential Medicines 23rd List
  • Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) — Indian Pharmacopoeia Drug Monographs
  • National Health Service (NHS) — Medicines A to Z Clinical Guidelines
Reviewer Credentials: PharmD, Clinical PharmacologistLast Reviewed Date: 9/21/2026

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.