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Trazodone: uses, side effects & brands
Trazodone treats depression and is often used at low doses for sleep. It belongs to the Antidepressant (extra) group. More antidepressants and related mood medicines, each suited to different situations.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Antidepressant (extra) |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- Depression
- Sleep problems linked to depression (off-label)
- Anxiety with depression
Common brand names
- India: Trazonil, Oleptro
- Worldwide: Desyrel, Oleptro
Common side effects
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness or light-headedness on standing
- Dry mouth
- Headache
Before taking it — precautions
- Tell your doctor about heart-rhythm problems
- Avoid alcohol and other sedatives; take care driving
- Mention other antidepressants or migraine medicines (serotonin syndrome risk)
When to see a doctor urgently
- A painful erection lasting more than a few hours (urgent)
- Fainting, palpitations or irregular heartbeat (urgent)
- Suicidal thoughts or severe mood change (urgent)
Frequently asked questions
Why is trazodone given for sleep?
It causes drowsiness, so doctors sometimes use it at night for poor sleep, especially in people with depression.
Is trazodone addictive?
It is not considered habit-forming like sleeping pills, but stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms.
Why the warning about erections?
Rarely, trazodone causes a prolonged painful erection (priapism). It needs emergency treatment to prevent permanent damage.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.