SARI · generic Desyrel

Trazodone.

At low doses it is one of the most widely prescribed sleep aids in the country. Not a controlled substance and not habit-forming.

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trazodone

At a glance

Typical dose

25 to 100 mg at bedtime

Your physician sets your dose.

Form

Tablet

Generic, from a licensed US pharmacy.

Regulatory status

FDA-approved for depression. Low-dose use for sleep is off-label.

Used in: Sleep

What to expect

The timeline.

Night 1Take 30 to 60 minutes before bed. Allow a full night of sleep.
Week 1Morning grogginess is common at first and usually eases as the dose is found.
OngoingReviewed regularly. The aim is sleep you can keep without it.

Common side effects

Drowsiness, dizziness on standing, dry mouth, headache.

Not suitable for

Anyone taking an MAOI. Rarely, it can cause a prolonged, painful erection (priapism), which is an emergency. Do not mix with alcohol.

FDA boxed warning

Antidepressant-class medications can increase suicidal thoughts and behaviour in children, adolescents and adults under 25, particularly in the first weeks or after a dose change. Watch for any change in mood and contact your physician straight away. In crisis, call or text 988.

This is a summary, not the full prescribing information. Read the leaflet that comes with your medication. Report side effects to your physician, or to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

The evidence

Clinical guidelines rate the evidence for insomnia as limited. Many physicians and patients still find it useful, and we say so plainly.

Published trial results, not okay. patient outcomes.

Trazodone

$39/mo

Includes physician care, messaging, medication if prescribed, and free discreet shipping.

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