What Is Trazodone?
Trazodone is an FDA-approved medication primarily used for the treatment of major depressive disorder. It can also be prescribed off-label for sleep disorders due to its sedative effects. It’s classified as a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI).
How Trazodone Works
Trazodone operates by modulating the activity of neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly serotonin, which plays a vital role in mood regulation and emotional state. It blocks the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin and affects the availability of certain other neurotransmitters, ensuring more serotonin is available in the brain.
This action helps to alleviate symptoms of depression and improve mood stability. The medication’s sedative effect, which contributes to its effectiveness in treating insomnia and anxiety-related sleep issues, is linked to its impact on other neurotransmitter systems in the brain.
