Trazodone

Trazodone is a mood-elevating and sedating antidepressant used for the treatment of depression with or without anxiety disorder.‍‍‍‍‍‍​​​‍​​​​​​ Its effects are attributed, among other mechanisms, to the inhibition of serotonin reuptake into presynaptic nerve cells and antagonism at serotonin receptors. Off-label, trazodone is frequently used as a hypnotic for insomnia in non-depressed patients. However, this practice is not without controversy. The most common possible adverse effects include drowsiness, dry mouth, and pain. When combined with other serotonergic medications, there is a risk of serotonin syndrome. Trazodone is a substrate of CYP3A4. Trazodone (ATC N06AX05) has antidepressant, sedative, and at low doses sleep-promoting properties. Its effects are attributed, among other mechanisms, to the inhibition of serotonin reuptake into the presynaptic neuron and antagonism at 5-HT2 receptors. Trazodone belongs to the SARIs — Serotonin Antagonists and Reuptake Inhibitors. The sedative effects occur rapidly, whereas the antidepressant effects take one to three weeks to develop. According to the literature, trazodone is also an alpha-blocker, which explains adverse effects such as hypotension and persistent erection (priapism). Unlike other antidepressants and antipsychotics, trazodone is neither anticholinergic nor antidopaminergic. Mechanism of action of reuptake inhibitors, click to enlarge. Illustration © PharmaWiki