Medication Guide
Trazodone: Uses, Side Effects & What to Expect
Trazodone is an antidepressant (a SARI) that’s best known today for a different use: at low doses it helps with sleep. At higher doses it treats depression. It’s sedating and, unlike many antidepressants, is not associated with sexual side effects. It is not addictive. For sleep, the effect is felt the same night; the antidepressant effect builds over weeks.
Clinically reviewed by the Lyte Psychiatry Clinical Team · Last reviewed June 2026
What is trazodone?
Trazodone is a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI). It nudges serotonin while also blocking histamine and certain other receptors, which is what makes it sedating. That sedation is why low-dose trazodone is one of the most common non-habit-forming options for sleep, even though it was first developed as an antidepressant.
What does trazodone treat?
Trazodone is FDA-approved for major depressive disorder. In everyday practice it’s very often prescribed off-label at low doses for insomnia — meaning supported by clinical experience and research — especially when sleep trouble comes with depression or anxiety.
How long does it take to work?
For sleep, trazodone works the same night. For depression, the benefit builds gradually over several weeks, similar to other antidepressants, and usually requires higher doses than those used for sleep.
Common side effects
Most side effects relate to its calming nature:
- Drowsiness or grogginess
- Dizziness or lightheadedness when standing up
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Fatigue
Standing up slowly can help with the lightheadedness, especially early on.
A note on dosing
Doses for sleep are much lower than doses for depression, and your prescriber sets the right one for your goal. This page intentionally doesn’t give a specific number — the right dose is decided with your clinician.
An important safety note
As an antidepressant, trazodone carries an FDA “boxed warning”: in people under 25, antidepressants can in rare cases increase suicidal thoughts, especially early in treatment. If you or someone you love has thoughts of self-harm, call or text 988 (the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) right away.
A rare but urgent warning
Trazodone can rarely cause priapism — a painful erection lasting more than a few hours. This is a medical emergency: seek care right away if it happens, as prompt treatment protects against lasting harm.
Frequently asked questions
What is trazodone used for?
Trazodone is an antidepressant (SARI) FDA-approved for major depressive disorder. At low doses it is very commonly used off-label to help with sleep, especially when insomnia accompanies depression or anxiety.
How long does trazodone take to work for sleep?
For sleep, trazodone works the same night. Its antidepressant effect, at higher doses, builds gradually over several weeks.
Is trazodone addictive?
No. Trazodone is not a controlled substance and is not addictive, which is a key reason it is often chosen over some other sleep medications.
What are the common side effects of trazodone?
Common side effects include drowsiness, dizziness or lightheadedness when standing, dry mouth, headache, and fatigue. Standing up slowly can help with lightheadedness.
Does trazodone cause sexual side effects?
Unlike many antidepressants, trazodone is generally not associated with sexual side effects, which is sometimes a reason it is chosen. A rare but serious effect in men is priapism, which needs emergency care.
Can I drink alcohol while taking trazodone?
No, it is best to avoid alcohol, which adds to the drowsiness and dizziness trazodone can cause. Talk with your prescriber about your situation.
Related pages
This page is for general education and is not medical advice or a substitute for care from your own clinician. Medication decisions should always be made with a licensed prescriber who knows your history.
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