Trazadone can help treat depression in adults. Before we discuss trazodone, it is important to clarify that if you or someone you know is experiencing depression please speak to a doctor you trust. Within this article we are going to focus on trazodone oral tablet. Please take into consideration that I am not a doctor, but I have conducted extensive research in order to provide the information below.
What is Trazodone?
Trazodone is a drug that can help treat depression. It requires a prescription and belongs to the class of antidepressants. The drug can increase serotonin activity in the brain. Serotonin is the chemical that helps maintains mental balance. The immediate-release oral tablet is only available as a generic drug, which means it can cost less. Trazodone extended-release oral tablet, on the other hand, is available as a brand-name drug, Oleptro. Other U.S. brand names include Desyrel and Desyrel Dividose.
Warnings Before Taking
Allergy Warning
It is possible to experience an allergic reaction from the drug. If you experience symptoms like trouble breathing, swelling of the face or mouth, and rash, call your doctor immediately. You can also call your local poison control center as well. However, if your symptoms are severe, call 911 or go to the closest emergency room.
And evidently, if you have experienced an allergic reaction, do not take this drug again.
Alcohol Warning
Drinking alcohol can have a negative influence on your condition. Alcohol along with trazodone can increase the risk of sleepiness or dizziness. If you consume alcohol, speak to your doctor.
Women who are Pregnant or Breastfeeding
If you are pregnant or have become pregnant while taking the drug, talk to your doctor. Trazodone is a category C pregnancy drug, meaning it has shown adverse effects to the fetus. Also, there have not been enough studies conducted on humans to determine its specific effects.
If you are breastfeeding, it is also important to speak to your doctor. The drug can pass into the breast milk and can cause side effects in your child who receives the breast milk.
Patients with Heart Disease
There is some risk for people who have heart disease because trazodone can cause irregular heartbeat and prolonged QT interval. Your doctor may suggest to closely observe your condition or suggest a different medication.
Patients with Angle-Closure Glaucoma
Acute angle-closure glaucoma is caused by a sudden increase in intraocular pressure (IOP) in which the fluid is continually produced inside of the eye, causing pressure. It is possible that trazodone can make your pupils bigger. The drug can also cause an angle closure attack.
Patients with Mania or Bipolar Disorder
People who have a history of mania or bipolar disorder can actually have a higher risk of manic episodes on trazodone. Your doctor will most likely suggest a different drug to prescribe you with.
Who Can Take Trazodone?
Although trazodone is intended to help treat depression, adults are the only ones who can take it. As previously mentioned, there are certain risks and warnings associated with certain groups of people, such as pregnant women.
Trazodone is not safe for children. More specifically, people under the age of 18 years should not use the drug. On the other hand, if you are older than 65 years, you can be at a higher risk of developing side effects because your kidneys do not work as well as young adults.
Ultimately, your dosage, drug form, and the amount you take the drug depends on your age, the severity of your condition, what other medications you are taking, and how you first react to trazodone.
Highlights for Trazodone
- The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved trazodone in 1981 under Desyrel.
- It can also help treat insomnia and sleeplessness.
- The drug can also be used for several off-label purposes, such as helping with sedation, anxiety, fibromyalgia, severe headaches, and reflex sympathetic dystrophy syndrome (RSD).
- Veterinarians can use trazodone for dogs as a treatment for anxiety and animal behavioral issues.
In conclusion…
Trazodone can be a great option for you depending on your condition. However, have an open conversation with your doctor to determine what is best for you. There are other antidepressants and medications that may be more beneficial to you.
Disclaimer: Please note that this article has made every attempt at providing correct information through research. However, do not use the article in place of professional knowledge and expertise that a licensed health care provider can give you. Speak to a doctor you trust if you have any more ongoing questions or concerns.
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