Trazodone 150mg

Antidepressant, Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor/Antagonist

“ALERT: US Boxed Warning

Suicidal thoughts and behaviors:

Antidepressants increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in pediatric and young adult patients in short-term studies. Closely monitor all antidepressant-treated patients for clinical worsening, and for emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Trazodone is not approved for use in pediatric patients.”

CSA NA – FDA Approved – REMS (N) – Can Ship

Trazodone/Oleptro inhibits reuptake of serotonin, increase adrenoreceptor sensitivity, has antagonist action at the 5-HT 2a receptor, also blocks H1 histamine receptor and alpha 1 adrenergic receptor

Trazodone/Oleptro is officially indicated for major depressive disorder.  It is also commonly prescribed off-label for use in insomnia or aggression in dementia patients. (may be used for conditions not listed)

Before starting Trazodone/Oleptro make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take, if you have liver disease, if you have bipolar disorder, kidney disease, a seizure disorder, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.  This medication also has risk of causing serotonin syndrome especially if combined with other serotonergic drugs.

25mg-300mg daily divided into one to three daily doses

How to Take: Follow instructions provided by physician/pharmacy label, swallow whole or break tablet along score line if required, take consistently at same times each day usually with food unless otherwise directed, store at room temperature     

You Need to Avoid: Do not stop this medication without tapering dose down over time to prevent withdrawal symptoms (nausea, diarrhea, sweating, headaches, agitation, insomnia, anxiety, tremor, vertigo, dizziness)

Drowsiness, dizziness, headache, anxiety, dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, blurred vision

Note this is not a complete list of side effects, only common ones

1. What do I do if side effects are intolerable?  
   If you are just starting this medication or just had a dosage increase, then it is common to have more prominent side effects for 2 weeks or so and if any remain at that point they will likely remain.  If the symptoms are causing a lot of distress speak to your physician as soon as possible to discuss how to come off the medication.
2. What do I do if my mood worsens on Trazodone/Oleptro and I feel much worse?
   Contact your physician immediately, it is rare however antidepressant medications can cause suicidal ideation, generally in those under the age of 24.
3. What is serotonin syndrome?
   Serotonin syndrome is a rare, but potentially life-threatening condition of serotonin toxicity from too much of it in your system generally from the use of certain medications and supplements.  Usually multiple agents are at play or very high doses are involved.  The signs and symptoms include agitation, hallucinations, delirium, coma, tachycardia (rapid heart rate), diaphoresis (excessive sweating), tremor, muscle rigidity, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and/or seizures.  If serotonin syndrome is suspected, discontinue any serotonergic medications and seek immediate medical attention.