Trazodone: Price, Dosage & Where to Buy

Trazodone is an antidepressant described in the label as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. It is prescribed mainly for major depressive disorder in adults. Generic trazodone has been available since 1987-03-25, and it requires a prescription in the United Kingdom.

Trazodone is an antidepressant described in the label as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Medicines in this group affect serotonin signalling in the brain. Serotonin is a chemical messenger involved in mood and other functions.

By reducing the reuptake of serotonin, trazodone increases the amount available for signalling between nerve cells. The resulting changes in brain signalling may help improve symptoms of major depressive disorder over time.

Trazodone can also cause drowsiness and other effects on the central nervous system, so its effects on alertness, judgement, thinking, and movement need to be considered. The exact relationship between its pharmacological actions and improvement in depression is not fully understood.

Trazodone hydrochloride tablets are indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adults. Major depressive disorder can involve persistent low mood and changes in thinking, sleep, energy, appetite, or interest in everyday activities. Trazodone is intended to treat the depressive illness rather than a single isolated symptom.

The label does not approve these tablets for use in paediatric patients. Assessment and follow-up by a doctor are needed when trazodone is prescribed, particularly because depression can worsen or suicidal thoughts and behaviours can emerge during antidepressant treatment.

The label lists oral solution at 10 mg/mL and oral tablets at 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, and 300 mg. The label lists film-coated oral tablets at 25 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg, and 100 mg. The usual starting dose is 150 mg daily in divided doses.

The label lists an increase of 50 mg per day every three to four days when clinically appropriate. The label lists a maximum outpatient dose of 400 mg per day in divided doses. The label lists up to 600 mg per day in divided doses for inpatients with more severe depression.

The label lists administration shortly after a meal or light snack. The label states that tablets may be swallowed whole or broken in half along the score line, and should not be chewed or crushed. The label recommends gradual dose reduction when treatment is discontinued rather than abrupt stopping.

Store at 20° to 25°C in a tight, light-resistant container. Excursions between 15° and 30°C are permitted. Keep the medicine in child-resistant packaging and protect it from light, as directed on the label.

A missed dose should not usually be compensated for by taking an additional dose. General pharmacy practice is to follow the prescribed schedule and seek advice from a pharmacist or doctor if the next scheduled dose is near.

Trazodone should not be stopped abruptly, because adverse reactions may occur on discontinuation and gradual dose reduction is recommended. Advice may need to reflect the prescribed regimen and the timing of the missed dose.

Published prospective cohort studies, case series, and case reports over several decades have not identified an association between trazodone use during pregnancy and major birth defects, miscarriage, or other adverse maternal or fetal outcomes. Animal studies identified fetal effects at exposure levels related to 400 mg per day in adults.

Trazodone transfers into human milk, and there are no data on its effect on milk production. Discuss pregnancy or breastfeeding with a doctor or pharmacist before treatment changes.