Trazodone is both a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and a 5HT2 receptor antagonist and the net result of this action on serotonergic transmission and its role in trazodone’s antidepressant effect is unknown.

Trazodone hydrochloride tablets are indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults.

An initial dose of 150 mg/day in divided doses is suggested. The dose may be increased by 50 mg/day every 3 to 4 days. The maximum dose for outpatients usually should not exceed 400 mg/day in divided doses.

Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥ 5% and twice that of placebo) are: edema, blurred vision, syncope, drowsiness, fatigue, diarrhea, nasal congestion, weight loss.

Patients taking, or within 14 days of stopping, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), including MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue, because of an increased risk of serotonin syndrome.

Serotonin Syndrome: Increased risk when co-administered with other serotonergic agents (e.g., SSRI, SNRI, triptans), but also when taken alone. If it occurs, discontinue trazodone hydrochloride tablets and initiate supportive treatment. Cardiac Arrhythmias: Increases the QT interval. Avoid use with drugs that also increase the QT interval and in patients with risk factors for prolonged QT interval. Orthostatic Hypotension and Syncope: Warn patients of risk and symptoms of hypotension. Increased Risk of Bleeding: Concomitant use of aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), other antiplatelet drugs, warfarin, and other anticoagulants may increase this risk. Priapism: Cases of painful and prolonged penile erections and priapism have been reported. Immediate medical attention should be sought if signs and symptoms of prolonged penile erections or priapism are observed. (See Full Prescribing Information.)