Desyrel (Trazodone)

Do's

• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions and the directions on the prescription label. 
• Take Desyrel by mouth after a meal or snack as directed by your healthcare provider, usually once or twice daily. 
• Take one dose at bedtime if drowsiness is an issue, especially if taking it once daily. If taking twice daily, consider taking one of the doses at bedtime. 
• Take Desyrel exactly as prescribed. 
• Keep taking Desyrel as prescribed, even if you feel well. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.   
• Inform your healthcare provider if your condition lasts or worsens. 

Don'ts 

• Do not increase your dose or take it more often than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and the risk of serious side effects may be increased.  
• Do not stop taking Desyrel without consulting your healthcare provider, as anxiety, agitation, and trouble sleeping can occur if the drug is suddenly stopped.   

The dosage and administration of Desyrel (trazodone) may vary depending on your medical condition and the guidance of your healthcare provider. The dosage of Desyrel is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your healthcare provider may start you at a low dose and gradually increase it to reduce the risk of side effects. It may take 2 to 4 weeks before you notice the full effects of Desyrel. 

Some common side effects that may occur include:

• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Tiredness
• Blurred vision
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Diarrhea
• Stuffy nose
• Swelling
• Weight loss

Serious side effects are rare but can occur. 

• Fast or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, shortness of breath, and sudden dizziness
• Slow heartbeats
• Unusual thoughts or behavior
• Easy bruising or unusual bleeding
• Low levels of sodium in the body, which may cause symptoms such as headache, confusion, slurred speech, severe weakness, vomiting, loss of coordination, or feeling unsteady
• Symptoms of serotonin syndrome, such as agitation, hallucinations, fever, sweating, shivering, fast heart rate, muscle stiffness, twitching, loss of coordination, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Desyrel,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Before taking Desyrel, it is important to be aware of the following warnings and precautions:

1. Allergies: Do not use Desyrel if you are allergic to trazodone or any of its components.
2. Medical Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially if you have a history of bipolar disorder, mania, hypomania, or any other mental health conditions.
3. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, discuss with your healthcare provideras the use of Desyrel during pregnancy or breastfeeding may not be safe. Your healthcare provider will weigh the potential benefits against the risks.
4. Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products, as there may be potential interactions with Desyrel. Particularly, Desyrel should not be used with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of stopping an MAOI.
5. Serotonin Syndrome: Desyrel, like other serotonergic drugs, may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. This risk is increased when Desyrel is used in combination with other serotonergic drugs such as triptans, antidepressants, tramadol, and St. John's Wort. Monitor for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome and seek medical attention if they occur.
6. Suicidal Thoughts: Some individuals, particularly young people, may experience an increase in suicidal thoughts when first taking an antidepressant. Stay alert to changes in mood or symptoms and report any new or worsening symptoms to your healthcare provider.