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Trazodone is a prescription medication most commonly used to treat depression, but it’s also often prescribed off-label to help with sleep problems like insomnia. Trazodone belongs to a class of drugs called serotonin modulators, which help improve mood and promote relaxation. At lower doses, its sedating effects tend to be more noticeable – making it a popular option for people who have trouble falling or staying asleep.
Trazodone works by affecting serotonin levels in the brain, a chemical that plays a key role in mood, sleep, and emotional balance. Specifically, it’s a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI). That means it:
At higher doses, this action helps treat depression by improving mood. At lower doses, the medication’s sedating effects tend to be stronger, which is why it's often prescribed off-label for insomnia.
You may qualify for trazodone if you’re experiencing symptoms of depression, anxiety, or insomnia, and other treatment options haven’t worked well for you or aren’t a good fit. It’s often considered when sleep problems are related to mood or stress. A healthcare provider will determine if trazodone is appropriate by considering:
Trazodone isn’t right for everyone, but if you're struggling with mood or sleep and looking for a non-habit-forming option, your provider may explore it as part of your treatment plan.
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Trazodone might be right for you if you're dealing with depression, anxiety, or insomnia, especially when sleep issues are linked to mood or stress. It’s often used when other medications haven’t worked well or have caused unwanted side effects. A healthcare provider will help decide if trazodone fits your needs by looking at:
If you're looking for a non-habit-forming option to help with sleep or mood, trazodone may be a good option – but it should always be prescribed as part of a personalized care plan.
No, trazodone is not a controlled substance. It’s a prescription medication, but it’s not classified as habit-forming or addictive in the way that controlled substances like benzodiazepines or stimulants are.
That said, it still needs to be used under medical supervision.
Trazodone is not commonly associated with weight gain, especially at the lower doses often prescribed for sleep. However, like many medications that affect serotonin and mood, it can lead to changes in appetite or weight in some people – though this is generally less common than with other antidepressants.
If you notice unexpected weight changes while taking trazodone, it’s a good idea to talk with your healthcare provider. They can help determine whether the medication is the likely cause or if something else may be contributing.
Yes, trazodone can make you feel sleepy – in fact, that’s one of its most common effects. While it’s primarily an antidepressant, its sedating properties make it a popular off-label option for treating insomnia or sleep disturbances, especially when those issues are related to stress or depression.
Drowsiness usually kicks in within an hour of taking it, which is why it’s often prescribed at night. If you're taking it for depression, your provider may adjust the timing or dose to help manage daytime fatigue.
Yes, trazodone may help with anxiety, especially when anxiety is linked to depression or sleep problems. While it's not FDA-approved specifically for anxiety, many healthcare providers use it off-label to relieve symptoms like restlessness, tension, and trouble sleeping.
Trazodone works by affecting serotonin levels in the brain, which can improve mood and promote a sense of calm. Its sedating effects may also help reduce the physical symptoms of anxiety, such as racing thoughts or difficulty falling asleep.
That said, it’s not always the first-line treatment for anxiety. A provider can help decide if it’s the right option for your specific symptoms and health history.
The most common side effects of trazodone include:
These side effects often improve as your body adjusts to the medication. If you experience anything severe – like chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or prolonged erection (priapism) – seek medical help right away.
Yes! With LifeMD, you can connect with a licensed healthcare provider from the comfort of your home within an hour. If appropriate, your provider may prescribe a medication and send it directly to your local pharmacy.
For even more flexibility, a LifeMD+ membership gives you 24/7 access to care, same-day prescription refills, exclusive wellness perks, and easy access to lab testing — all designed to make managing your health simple and stress-free.
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