Trazodone 100mg is an oral antidepressant and is used to treat depression and to treat the combination of symptoms of anxiety and depression. It works by affecting the balance of chemicals in the brain that are associated with depression. Like most antidepressants, trazodone has also been used in limited numbers of patients to treat panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, enuresis (bed-wetting), eating disorders such as bulimia nervosa , cocaine dependency, and the depressive phase of bipolar (manic-depressive) disorder. The therapeutic effects of trazodone, like other antidepressants, appear slowly. Maximum benefit is often not evident for at least two weeks after starting the drug. People taking trazodone should be aware of this and continue taking the drug as directed even if they do not see immediate improvement.
How should I use this medicine?
The recommended adult dose of trazodone ranges from 150 mg to 300 mg daily, taken in 2 or 3 divided doses with a meal or light snack. This medicine should be taken by mouth with a glass of water and at regular intervals. The dose is usually started at a low level and increased gradually until the best dose is found. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly except upon the advice of your doctor. Stopping this medicine too quickly may cause serious side effects or your condition may worsen. If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
What should I watch for while using this medicine?
Tell your doctor if your symptoms do not get better or if they get worse. Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Because it may take several weeks to see the full effects of this medicine, it is important to continue your treatment as prescribed by your doctor.You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
This medicine may cause dry eyes and blurred vision. If you wear contact lenses you may feel some discomfort. Your mouth may get dry. Chewing sugarless gum, sucking hard candy and drinking plenty of water may help. Contact your doctor if the problem does not go away or is severe.
What side effects are possible with Trazodone?
Many medications can cause side effects. A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. Side effects can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent. Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome:
-allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
-fast, irregular heartbeat
-feeling faint or lightheaded, falls
-painful erections or other sexual dysfunction
-suicidal thoughts or other mood changes
-trembling
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
-constipation
-headache
-muscle aches or pains
-nausea, vomiting
-unusually weak or tired
Some people may experience side effects other than those listed. Check with your doctor if you notice any symptom that worries you while you are taking this medication.
Where should I keep my medicine?
Keep Trazodone out of the reach of children and away from pets. Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 to 86 degrees F). Protect from light. Do not store in the bathroom Keep container tightly closed.