Trazodone hydrochloride

Trazodone Hydrochloride is an antidepressant medication primarily used to treat major depressive disorder. It is also used off-label for the treatment of insomnia, anxiety disorders, and certain pain conditions. Trazodone Hydrochloride is a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI), which works by increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain, a neurotransmitter that helps maintain mental balance.

Pharmacology

Trazodone Hydrochloride acts by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and by acting as an antagonist at certain serotonin receptors. It also has weak inhibitory effects on norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake. The combined effect of these actions is thought to lead to the antidepressant, anxiolytic, and hypnotic effects of Trazodone Hydrochloride.

Clinical Uses

Trazodone Hydrochloride is primarily used in the treatment of major depressive disorder. It may also be used off-label for the treatment of insomnia, especially in individuals who also have depressive symptoms. Other off-label uses include the treatment of anxiety disorders, chronic pain, and fibromyalgia.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Trazodone Hydrochloride include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, and constipation. More serious side effects may include cardiac arrhythmias, orthostatic hypotension, and serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, and fever.

Interactions

Trazodone Hydrochloride can interact with a number of other medications, including other antidepressants, MAO inhibitors, and certain antipsychotics. It should be used with caution in individuals taking these medications.

Contraindications

Trazodone Hydrochloride is contraindicated in individuals with known hypersensitivity to the drug. It should also be used with caution in individuals with cardiac disease, due to the risk of cardiac arrhythmias.

See Also

• Antidepressant
• Serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor
• Serotonin
• Major depressive disorder
• Insomnia
• Anxiety disorders