Generic Trazodone

Common use
Trazodone is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder and is also frequently prescribed for insomnia. It helps to improve mood, appetite, and energy levels while reducing anxiety and insomnia associated with depression. It belongs to the class of serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitors (SARIs). Its sedative properties also make it effective for short-term sleep problems.

Dosage and direction
Trazodone is usually taken once or twice daily, with food to reduce the risk of stomach upset. The dosage varies based on the condition being treated and individual response. For depression, higher doses are typically used, while lower doses are often sufficient for insomnia. Follow your doctor’s prescription exactly and do not stop the medication suddenly.

Precautions
Use trazodone cautiously if you have a history of heart disease, liver or kidney problems, or bipolar disorder. It may cause dizziness or drowsiness, so avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you. Combining it with alcohol or other central nervous system depressants may enhance sedative effects. Trazodone may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts in young adults and adolescents.

Contraindications
Trazodone should not be used in individuals allergic to the drug or any of its components. It is contraindicated with recent use of MAO inhibitors due to the risk of serotonin syndrome. Patients recovering from a heart attack should not use this medication without medical supervision. It should be used cautiously during pregnancy or breastfeeding and only if clearly needed.

Possible side effect
Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation. Some people may experience low blood pressure, especially when standing up quickly. Rare but serious side effects include prolonged erections (priapism), arrhythmia, and serotonin syndrome. Report any unusual symptoms to a doctor immediately.

Drug interaction
Trazodone may interact with other antidepressants, antipsychotics, sedatives, and alcohol, increasing the risk of sedation or serotonin syndrome. Combining it with blood pressure medications may cause an additive hypotensive effect. Inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are taking before starting treatment. Avoid using with drugs that affect liver enzymes without consultation.

Missed dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up. Maintain a consistent dosing routine for best results.

Overdose
An overdose of trazodone can cause excessive sedation, breathing difficulty, or cardiac arrhythmias. Severe cases may result in coma or death and require emergency medical intervention. Supportive care and monitoring are essential in overdose situations. Seek immediate help if an overdose is suspected.

Storage
Store trazodone at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and direct light. Keep the medication in a tightly closed container. Do not use past the expiration date. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Disclaimer

We provide only general information about medications which does not cover all directions, possible drug integrations, or precautions. Information at the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your health care adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim reliability of this information and mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.

Clinical Verification

Last Clinically Updated: August 15, 2026

Written By

Dr. Elena Vance, PharmD

Clinical Specialist in Neuropharmacology

Fact Checked By

Marcus Thorne, MS

Biomedical Data & FDA Label Verification

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. Arthur Campbell, MD

Board-Certified Psychiatrist (ABPN)