Trazodone: Uses, Side Effects, and Drug Interactions

# Trazodone: What You Need to Know Trazodone is a medication doctors prescribe to treat depression. It works by helping balance chemicals in your brain that affect your mood. When you take trazodone, it can help reduce sadness, anxiety, and other symptoms of depression. Many people find that this medicine helps them feel better and improves their sleep, since it can make you drowsy. Your doctor will tell you the right dose for your situation, and it's important to take it exactly as prescribed. There are some important safety things to remember when taking trazodone. Don't mix it with alcohol or other drugs that make you sleepy, because trazodone can make these effects stronger and more dangerous. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you take, especially blood thinners like warfarin or heart medications like digoxin, because trazodone might change how these drugs work in your body. Never take trazodone if you're also taking a type of antidepressant called MAOIs, and wait at least 14 days after stopping MAOIs before starting trazodone. Common side effects include feeling sleepy or dizzy, but contact your doctor if you have any concerning symptoms or if the medicine doesn't seem to be helping.