Pregnancy Risk Category C
How supplied
Tablets: 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, 300 mg
Action
Unknown. Inhibits serotonin uptake in the brain. Not a tricyclic derivative.
Indications & dosage
Depression--
Adults: initial dosage, 150 mg P.O. daily in divided doses; then increased by 50 mg daily q 3 to 4 days, p.r.n. Dosage ranges from 150 to 400 mg daily. Maximum daily dose is 600 mg for inpatients and 400 mg for outpatients.
Adverse reactions
CNS: drowsiness, dizziness, nervousness, fatigue, confusion, tremor, weakness, hostility, anger, nightmares, vivid dreams, headache, insomnia, syncope.
CV: orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, hypertension, shortness of breath, ECG changes.
EENT: blurred vision, tinnitus, nasal congestion.
GI: dry mouth, dysgeusia, constipation, nausea, vomiting, anorexia.
GU: urine retention; priapism, possibly leading to impotence; hematuria.
Hematologic: anemia.
Hepatic: elevated liver function test results.
Skin: rash, urticaria, diaphoresis.
Other: decreased libido.
Interactions
Drug-drug. Antihypertensives: increased hypotensive effect of trazodone. Antihypertensive dosage may have to be decreased.
Clonidine, CNS depressants: enhanced CNS depression. Avoid concomitant use.
Digoxin, phenytoin: may increase serum levels of these drugs. Monitor for toxicity.
MAO inhibitors: effects unknown. Use together with extreme caution.
Drug-herb. St. John's wort: serotonin syndrome may result. Avoid concomitant use.
Drug-lifestyle. Alcohol use: enhanced CNS depression. Avoid concomitant use.
Effects on diagnostic tests
None reported.
Contraindications
Contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to drug.
Nursing considerations
Patient teaching
*Liquid contains alcohol. **May contain tartrazine. †Canada ‡Australia §U.K. OTCOver the counter
Reactions may be common, uncommon, life-threatening, or COMMON AND LIFE-THREATENING