High level view
Active unit: trazodone. It belongs to a group of antidepressant medicines with mixed serotonergic activity and receptor antagonism.
Typical forms: immediate release and sometimes modified release tablets. A commonly dispensed strength is 100 mg, though 25 mg, 50 mg or compounded strengths may also be available. For advice on flexible storage options adapt to changing needs. see Storage media and warehousing.
Summary: Trazodone is prescribed mainly for depressive disorders and associated insomnia. At lower doses it is frequently used off-label for sleep. See Similar remedies and substitute medicines and the Price guide for options and cost comparisons in Australian uS dollars.
Indicated uses and applications
Common clinical reasons a doctor might prescribe trazodone include:
- Treatment of major depressive disorder when an antidepressant is warranted.
- Management of anxiety-related sleep disturbance and insomnia in selected patients.
- Adjunctive use for certain chronic pain syndromes where sleep improvement or antidepressant effect is desirable.
Only take trazodone if it is prescribed for you. Do not share your medicine. For potential the pattern of interpersonal dialogue and exchanges determines group dynamics. refer to Drug interacting as a shared activity effects.
Best practices for taking trazodone
Follow the directions on your prescription label paired with the Consumer Medicine Information that comes with the product. If your prescriber changes the dose or brand, read the file new leaflet.
- Take the tablet after food or a light snack to reduce the chance of tummy upset.
- Initial improvements in sleep or mood may appear within days to weeks, but antidepressant benefits can take one to four weeks or longer.
- Do not stop suddenly without a plan from your prescriber, since abrupt cessation may cause withdrawal symptoms.
For what to do if you miss a dose see Dose not taken today information and guidance.
The action of trazodone explained
Trazodone affects serotonin pathways. It blocks some serotonin receptor subtypes and reduces serotonin reuptake, actions that can lift mood and commonly improve sleep architecture for many people. The precise therapeutic an apparatuss involve both receptor blockade and reuptake inhibition.
Instructions when a dose is missed
In the event a dose is forgotten, take it as soon as you recall unless the next dose is due soon. If the next dose is near, skip the the dose was missed and continue with your usual schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for one the dose was missed.
Preservation and handling
- The product should be stored at around 20 to 25 C. Brief excursions to 15-30 C are usually permissible.
- Keep tablets away from excessive heat, moisture and direct sunlight; avoid bathroom a storage solution should balance access and protection..
- Keep this product out of reach of children and pets. Dispose of unused medicine at a pharmacy if advised.
Safety risk advisories and cautions
Do not take trazodone if there are you have a known allergy to it or if you are using sodium oxybate. Tell your doctor or pharmacist before starting if any of the following apply to you:
- You are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- You take other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, herbal remedies or supplements.
- You have known allergies, heart disease, arrhythmia or a history of heart attack.
- You have a history of suicidal thoughts or self-harm, especially in younger people.
- You have planned surgery or consume alcohol regularly.
Safety points for awareness:
- Suicidal thoughts: Antidepressants can increase suicidal ideation in children, adolescents and young adults during early treatment. Close monitoring in real time is essential.
- Priapism: A rare but serious prolonged erection can occur; seek emergency care if an erection lasts longer than four hours.
- Serotonin syndrome: Risk rises when trazodone is combined with other serotonergic agents. See Drug a mutual exchange of ideas alerts.
- Drowsiness and dizziness: Avoid alcohol and be cautious when driving or operating machinery until you understand how trazodone affects you.
- Orthostatic hypotension: Stand up slowly from sitting or lying positions to reduce light-headedness.
If you develop severe signs such as breathing difficulty, facial or tongue swelling, chest pain, seizures or stroke symptoms call 000 immediately or seek emergency care.
Drug potential the networked exchange of ideas risks
Always tell your prescriber about all medicines, supplements and herbal products you use. Noted exchanges include:
- Other serotonergic drugs (for example SSRIs, SNRIs, triptans, MAO inhibitors, buspirone) which can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.
- CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ritonavir, ketoconazole or itraconazole may raise trazodone levels and deleterious health effects.
- CYP3A4 inducers like carbamazepine can reduce trazodone concentrations and its effectiveness.
- ABV, benzodiazepines, antipsychotics and other sedative medicines can amplify drowsiness.
- Drugs that require tracking and monitoring of performance such as warfarin, phenytoin or digoxin may need dose adjustments or closer supervision.
For practical dosing reminders see How to deal with it.
Potential health effects to watch for
Common drug-related unwanted health consequences reported include:
- Sleepiness, dizziness, light-headedness, recurring headache.
- Xerostomia, nausea, constipation or decreased appetite.
- Hazy vision, tremor, reduced coordination, nasal congestion.
- Muscle aches and general fatigue; sometimes insomnia or increased nervousness.
Serious reactions that need urgent attention:
- Severe allergic reactions such as widespread rash, hives or facial swelling and breathing difficulty.
- Chest pain, fainting or very fast or irregular heartbeat.
- Hallucinations, seizures or sudden neurological changes suggesting stroke.
- Blood in the urine, persistent vomiting or priapism.
If you suspect an overdose case call 000 or contact the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26 inside Australia.
See Stowage and handling and Instructions when a dose is missed to get practical tips.
Similar remedies and substitute medicines
Choice of an an optional path depends on symptoms, side effect profile and medical history. Frequently used an optional path choices are listed below.
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) - sertraline, escitalopram, fluoxetine, paroxetine, citalopram; often first-line for depression and many anxiety disorders.
- Serotonin noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) - venlafaxine, desvenlafaxine, duloxetine; useful when pain coexists with mood symptoms.
- Brand name Remeron for mirtazapine - frequently helps sleep and appetite, may be chosen when weight gain and sedation are acceptable.
- Bupropion - can be activating and is less likely to cause sexual knock-on effects; suitability varies by clinical situation and availability.
- Tricyclic antidepressants - amitriptyline, nortriptyline, doxepin; low doses are sometimes used for sleep or neuropathic pain.
- Melatonin and short-term hypnotics - may be considered for insomnia; melatonin availability and scheduling can differ by product.
Brief comparisons:
- Sleep effect: trazodone and mirtazapine are often helpful for insomnia; some SSRIs can disturb sleep early in treatment.
- Sexual collateral effects: bupropion tends to have lower risk for sexual dysfunction compared with SSRIs and trazodone.
- Weight: mirtazapine commonly increases appetite and weight; trazodone is generally weight neutral to modest.
Discuss choice a different paths with your prescriber to align treatment with your priorities. Costs for these options are listed under The price point guide for Australian dollars.
Indicative price analysis guide in Australia (AUD)
Prices vary by brand, pharmacy, whether the script is subsidised on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and concession status. The figures below are approximate private prescription ranges for planning only.
- Trazodone 100 mg, 30 tablets: approximately AUD 15 to 40 privately.
- Trazodone 50 mg, 30 tablets: approximately AUD 12 to 30 privately.
- Compounded trazodone products: commonly AUD 30 to 60 for a monthly supply depending on strength and pharmacy compounding fees.
Comparative private costs for more options:
- Generic SSRIs such as sertraline, fluoxetine or escitalopram: typically around AUD 9 to 25 per month; many are PBS-subsidised which reduces out-of-pocket cost.
- SNRIs such as venlafaxine or duloxetine: roughly AUD 12 to 35 per month privately.
- The antidepressant Mirtazapine: about AUD 10 to 28 per month privately; PBS options may lower this.
- Melatonin or short-term sleep aids: prices vary widely, approximately AUD 15 to 45 depending on formulation and whether prescription or over the counter.
Note: PBS listings and subsidy levels can change. Your exact cost will depend on PBS status, whether you hold a concession card, the brand chosen and any pharmacy dispensing fees. Always cross check your work. with your pharmacy for a current quote.
Status under law plus the process for obtaining it trazodone in Australia
- Scheduling: Trazodone is normally a Schedule 4 medicine in Australia, meaning prescription only.
- Supply: A valid prescription from an Australian registered prescriber is required to obtain it locally from community pharmacies.
- PBS listing: Not all strengths or brands may be on the PBS. If a product is not listed you will pay a private price.
- Personal importation: If a specific product is not marketed in Australia you may be eligible to import a personal supply under the TGA Personal Use Import Plan, usually up to three months supply with a valid prescription. Australian Border Force rules also apply.
- Online purchasing: Use caution with overseas online drugstore providers. Verify legality and ensure they require a valid prescription. Importing controlled or prescription medicines without appropriate documentation can be illegal.
- Driving and tasks: If trazodone causes drowsiness or dizziness avoid driving or operating heavy machinery and do not drink alcohol while affected.
For safe use review Alerts and safety guidelines and Drug-people engage through a series of the process of interactions. between drugss before the treatment begins.
Access to more information and assistance options
The information here is of a general nature and does not replace personalised medical advice. If you have questions consult your doctor, pharmacist or another qualified health professional.
- Request the Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) from your pharmacist for the exact brand you receive.
- If an emergency occurs, call 000. For poisoning advice call the Poisons Information Centre on 13 11 26.
- For questions about PBS listings and subsidy status contact Services Australia or your pharmacist.
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