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Trazodone

Brand names: Desyrel

Trazodone is an antidepressant. At low doses, providers often prescribe it off-label to help with sleep.

Brand namesDesyrel
Type of medicineAntidepressant (SARI)
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It affects serotonin and has a strong sedating effect.

What it's used for

  • Depression
  • Off-label: insomnia

How to take it

  • Take it shortly after a meal or snack.
  • If you take it for sleep, take it at bedtime.
  • Don't stop suddenly; your provider will lower the dose slowly.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Sleepiness
  • Dizziness
  • Dry mouth
  • Headache
  • Blurry vision
Call 911Thoughts of suicide or harming yourself. Call or text 988 any time.
Call 911Fainting or a fast, irregular heartbeat
Call 911An erection that's painful or lasts more than 4 hours
Call 911Agitation, fever, muscle twitching, and confusion (possible serotonin syndrome)

Warnings

  • Children, teens, and young adults can have more suicidal thoughts when starting.
  • Don't drive until you know how it affects you.
  • Older adults are more prone to dizziness and falls.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Alcohol and other sedating medicines add to drowsiness.
  • Never take within 14 days of an MAOI.
  • Other serotonin medicines raise the risk of serotonin syndrome.
  • Some antifungals, antibiotics, and HIV medicines raise its level. Some heart rhythm medicines add to heart rhythm risk.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Talk with your provider about benefits and risks.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.