Trazodone also called Pliva 433 is an oral Antidepressant drug approved by US FDA in 1982. It affects the chemical messengers (neurotransmitters) within the brain that nerves use to communicate with (stimulate) each other. The major neurotransmitters are acetylcholine, norepinephrine, dopamine and serotonin. Many experts believe that an imbalance among the different neurotransmitters is the cause of depression. Although the exact mechanism of action of trazodone is not known, it probably improves symptoms of depression by inhibiting the uptake of serotonin by nerves in the brain. This results in more serotonin to stimulate other nerves. Trazodone also may increase directly the action of serotonin.
- Trazodone is chemically Not related to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), the tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) or the monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAO inhibitors).
- The more common side effects of trazodone can include:sleepiness,dizziness,blurred vision and Constipation
- Serious side effects and their symptoms can include the following:Thoughts of suicide and worsening depression,Serotonin syndrome,Vision problems,Irregular or fast heartbeat or faint,Low blood pressure,Unusual bruising or bleeding,Erection that lasts longer than 6 hours,Hyponatremia (low sodium in your blood).
- Usual Adult Dose for depression is 150 mg/day initially in divided doses is recommended. The dose may be increased by 50 mg/day every three to four days. The maximum dose for outpatients usually should not exceed 400 mg/day in divided doses. Inpatients (ie, more severely depressed patients) may be given up to but not in excess of 600 mg/day in divided doses.
- Trazodone is a pregnancy category “C” Drug By US FDA. This drug should be used during pregnancy only if the benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus.