Indications 

Desyrel is a prescription medicine indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. A clinical condition characterized by a persistent and severe low mood, profound sadness, or a sense of despair. 

Categorized as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) medication, Desyrel functions by aiding in the restoration of a specific naturally occurring neurotransmitter called serotonin in the brain, thereby helping to restore balance. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Desyrel and every time you get a refill, ensure to read its patient information leaflet and medication guide. For any questions or clarifications, consult a healthcare professional. 

The dosage of Desyrel is determined by the patient’s medical condition and treatment response. To mitigate the potential for adverse effects, physicians usually initiate treatment with a low dose and incrementally escalate it. 

Desyrel is typically taken once or twice daily, following a meal or light snack, as directed by the physician. This medication can be taken as a whole tablet or a half tablet by splitting it along the scored line. 

Strictly adhere to the prescribed dosage regimen of Desyrel. Do not take more or less than what has been prescribed, and do not exceed the frequency specified by your physician. 

Continue to take this medication regularly at the same time of the day daily even if you feel well. Abruptly stopping the use of Desyrel without medical supervision may result in the onset of withdrawal symptoms.  

If you intend to discontinue treatment, it is advisable to consult with your physician, who will likely reduce your dosage gradually. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse reactions associated with Desyrel. If any of them lasts or worsens, inform your physician or pharmacist promptly. 

Common Side Effects 

• Drowsiness, dizziness, or tiredness 
• Swelling 
• Weight loss 
• Blurred vision 
• Diarrhea or constipation 
• Stuffy nose 

Serious Side Effects  

• Rapid or strong heartbeat, chest flutters, breathing difficulties, and sudden dizziness 
• Slow heartbeat 
• Unusual thoughts or actions 
• Easily bruised skin or abnormal bleeding 
• Signs of low sodium levels in the body 
• Headaches 
• Confusion 
• Speech difficulties 
• Severe weakness 
• Vomiting 
• Unsteady feelings 

Call your doctor at once if you experience any of the serious side effects mentioned above. 

Urgent medical evaluation is warranted in the presence of symptoms indicative of serotonin syndrome, such as: 

• Restlessness 
• Fever 
• Sweating 
• Hallucinations 
• Fast heart rate 
• Muscle stiffness 
• Twitching 
• Lack of coordination 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 

Cease the intake of Desyrel and call your doctor at once if you have a painful erection that lasts for 6 hours or more. You are encountering a medical emergency that could lead to a serious condition that must be resolved by surgery. 

Tell your doctor if you experience new or worsening symptoms such as: 

• Mood or behavior change 
• Anxiety 
• Panic attacks 
• Difficulty sleeping 
• Experiencing impulsivity, irritability, agitation, hostility, aggression, restlessness, or hyperactivity, whether mentally or physically 
• More depressed 
• Experiencing suicidal ideation or self-harm ideation 

Allergic Reactions 

Severe allergic response to Desyrel is rare. However, get immediate medical assistance if you observe any indications of an allergic reaction, such as: 

• Hives 
• swelling (especially of the face/lips/tongue/throat) 
• Severe dizziness 
• Difficulty breathing  

The above-mentioned list is not the complete list of side effects associated with Desyrel. If you encounter any unlisted effects, promptly seek advice from your physician or pharmacist. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Desyrel, inform your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any known allergies, especially to trazodone or to any of its inactive ingredients. Consult your pharmacist for additional information. 

Disclose your medical history to your doctor with specific emphasis on: 

• Previous suicide attempts by oneself or family members 
• History of glaucoma, specifically the angle-closure type, in oneself or family members 
• History of bipolar disorder in oneself or family members. 
• Heart problems like irregular heartbeat or heart attack 
• Liver disease 
• Kidney disease 
• Blood pressure problems 

Some products like digoxin can interact with Desyrel. To avoid potential drug interactions, inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking, including prescription/nonprescription drugs, supplements, and herbal products.  

Be especially mindful to inform your doctor if you are taking MAO inhibitors, as this medication may cause a serious (possibly fatal) drug interaction with Desyrel. 

The use of most MAO inhibitors is recommended to be discontinued for two weeks before and following treatment with Desyrel. To determine the appropriate timing for initiating or discontinuing this medication, consult with your doctor. 

The efficacy of Desyrel may be impacted by certain medications that affect the elimination of the drug from the body. This can result in altered functioning and effect. Examples of such medications include: 

• Azole antifungals like itraconazole, ketoconazole 
• HIV protease inhibitors like ritonavir, indinavir 
• Macrolide antibiotics like erythromycin 
• Rifamycins like rifampin 
• Drugs utilized in the treatment of seizures like phenytoin among others. 

Concurrently taking other medications that promote serotonin elevation may escalate the risk of serotonin syndrome/toxicity, especially when given at an increased dose. Examples of such medications include: 

• Street drugs like MDMA/”ecstasy,” St. John’s wort 
• Certain antidepressants (including SSRIs such as fluoxetine/paroxetine, and SNRIs such as duloxetine/venlafaxine), among others.  

Desyrel can cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision, which can be exacerbated by alcohol or marijuana use. Refrain from activities requiring alertness or clear vision until safe. Limit alcohol consumption and discuss marijuana use with your physician. 

Desyrel can induce angle-closure glaucoma, which results in a rapid increase in eye pressure leading to vision loss. Consult with your physician about receiving an eye examination before starting this medication. 

The use of Desyrel during pregnancy may pose a risk to the developing fetus. However, discontinuing the medication may also not be safe for the mother. Therefore, it is important to consult with your physician before starting or stopping Desyrel. 

Trazodone can be excreted into breast milk. Before breastfeeding, seek advice from your physician.