TRAZODONE
(Desyrel)Standard Prescription
Trazodone __ mg PO HS
Dosages
Adolescents/Adults:
Insomnia: (off-label use) 25-50 mg PO HS.
May increase in 25 mg increments to maximum of 100 mg PO HS.
Depression: (rarely prescribed for this indication) Adult doses range from 150-600 mg PO HS
Insomnia: (off-label use) 25-50 mg PO HS.
May increase in 25 mg increments to maximum of 100 mg PO HS.
Depression: (rarely prescribed for this indication) Adult doses range from 150-600 mg PO HS
Mechanism of Action
A serotonin-antagonist/reuptake inhibitor (SARI)
Forms Supplied
tablet: 50 mg
(Not stocked at BCCH: tablet: 68.25 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, extended-release tablet: 150 mg, 300 mg)
Comments
Prominent sedation due to histamine-H1 blockade (may be beneficial for insomnia, as tolerance does not develop, not habit forming).
Formal studies in pediatric insomnia lacking.
Theoretical risk of serotonin syndrome when used in combination with other serotonergic agents (e.g. SSRIs); incidence appears low.
Adverse effects: daytime sedation/drowsiness, headache, dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, blurred vision, nausea. Priapism (prolonged, painful erection lasting >4 hours) may occur, even with low dosage.
Prescribers must be aware of warnings issued by Health Canada regarding the use of antidepressants in pediatric patients. Refer to the Health Canada Website.
Formal studies in pediatric insomnia lacking.
Theoretical risk of serotonin syndrome when used in combination with other serotonergic agents (e.g. SSRIs); incidence appears low.
Adverse effects: daytime sedation/drowsiness, headache, dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, blurred vision, nausea. Priapism (prolonged, painful erection lasting >4 hours) may occur, even with low dosage.
Prescribers must be aware of warnings issued by Health Canada regarding the use of antidepressants in pediatric patients. Refer to the Health Canada Website.
References
4, 44, 83
Last Edited
2021-08-02 03:32:51