trazodone (Desyrel)

Trazodone is used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), commonly called depression. It works in different ways to treat depression: It is thought to work as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) to increase serotonin levels in the brain, and also blocks certain other brain chemicals to help treat depression symptoms.

Trazodone may be prescribed off-label for sleep issues. An off-label use is when a medication is prescribed for a purpose other than its approved use. Taking trazodone may make you feel sleepy or tired, which is one of the reasons the medication is often used to help with sleep. Trazodone is also often preferred as a sleep aid over other medications because it is not habit-forming. If you have depression and problems with sleep, your provider may discuss trazodone as a treatment option.

Trazodone may cause weight gain or weight loss. Although weight gain was not a common side effect of the medication, you may experience increased appetite with the use of the medication, which could cause some weight gain. Trazodone may also cause nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea which, in serious cases, can cause some weight loss. If you experience weight changes with trazodone, talk with your provider.

No, trazodone is not a controlled substance—it is not habit-forming, and taking it long-term is not known to cause addiction. If you have other questions about trazodone, talk with your provider to learn more.

Trazodone is prescribed off-label to treat insomnia. However, there may be reasons it's not helping you sleep better. For example, you may need a dosage adjustment. In some cases, trazodone may worsen sleep problems. If your provider prescribed trazodone for sleep and it's not working, reach out to them. They can discuss your symptoms and provide other options.

When used to support sleep, trazodone can make some people feel groggy the next day. When used to treat depression, trazodone is maintained in your body at a therapeutic level.

Depending on why you are taking trazodone, it can work immediately to support sleep, or within 1 to 2 weeks to treat other symptoms. However, it may take several weeks before you notice the full effects of the medication. Don't stop taking trazodone on your own if you feel it's not working for you. Reach out to your provider and discuss your symptoms—they can suggest options for you to consider.

You can meet with a licensed provider at Thriveworks, in person or online depending on your state. If it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe medication for a diagnosed mental health condition. Your provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.

Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication your provider prescribes, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your plan to confirm your medical and prescription coverage.

Schedule a session with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After discussing your symptoms and treatment goals, your provider may recommend medication and/or additional services to help you get where you want to be.

Yes. Thriveworks is LegitScript-certified, meaning we’ve been reviewed and verified by one of the most trusted compliance organizations in healthcare. This certification confirms that our services meet high standards for legality, safety, and transparency.