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trazodone hydrochloride
Desyrel, Molipaxin§, Trazon, Trialodine

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

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