Trazodone (By Mouth)

Trazodone (TRAZ-oh-done)

Treats depression and depression with anxiety.

Brand Name(s):

Desyrel, Desyrel Dividose
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to trazodone.

How to Use This Medicine:

Tablet

 
• Your doctor will tell you how much to take and how often.  
• Take your medicine with food or shortly after eating.

If a dose is missed:

 
• Take the missed dose as soon as possible.  
• If it is almost time for your next regular dose, wait until then to take your medicine and skip the missed dose.  
• You should not use two doses at the same time.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

 
• Store at room temperature, away from heat, light, and moisture.  
• Ask your pharmacist, doctor, or health caregiver about the best way to dispose of any outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed.  
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

 
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are taking digoxin, phenytoin (Dilantinreg;) or medicines that could make you drowsy such as sleeping pills, tranquilizers, other medicine for depression, cold or allergy medicine, or narcotic pain killers.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

 
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine.  
• Do not suddenly stop taking this medicine without first checking with your doctor.  
• You may need to take trazodone for 2 to 4 weeks before you start to feel better.  
• Get up slowly from a lying or sitting position to decrease dizziness caused by this medicine.  
• Trazodone can make you dizzy or drowsy. Be careful if driving a car or using machinery.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

 
• Skin rash, hives  
• Unexplained fever or sore throat  
• Unwanted and painful erection (erect penis) that does not go away

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

 
• Changes in vision such as trouble focusing  
• Constipation or diarrhea  
• Drowsiness or dizziness  
• Dry mouth  
• Headache  
• Nausea, vomiting, upset stomach  
• Nervousness, trouble sleeping