last update: November 14, 2025
BUY DESYREL NOW!
What Is Desyrel (Trazodone)? Indications and Uses
Desyrel is the brand name for trazodone hydrochloride, a prescription antidepressant that belongs to a class known as serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitors (SARI). Clinically, Desyrel is approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. Because of its sedating properties, clinicians also frequently use trazodone off-label for related conditions such as insomnia, anxiety associated with depression, and certain types of chronic pain or tension states where sleep disturbance and mood symptoms intersect. While off-label uses are common in practice, decisions about these uses should always be made with a licensed health care professional who can weigh benefits and risks for your specific situation.
Many patients are drawn to Desyrel because it can address two common problems in depression—low mood and poor sleep—without the same degree of sexual side effects or weight gain seen with some other antidepressants. That said, like all medications, Desyrel has a well-defined safety profile and important interaction considerations that deserve careful attention.
How Desyrel Works: The SARI Mechanism
Unlike traditional selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), trazodone has a dual mechanism:
- It antagonizes 5-HT2A/5-HT2C serotonin receptors, which is believed to reduce anxiety, improve sleep architecture, and mitigate certain SSRI-like side effects.
- It weakly inhibits the reuptake of serotonin, modestly increasing serotonin levels over time to help elevate mood.
Additionally, trazodone blocks histamine H1 and alpha-1 adrenergic receptors. H1 antagonism contributes to drowsiness, which can be helpful at night, while alpha-1 blockade can lead to lightheadedness or orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing). The antidepressant effect typically emerges over 2 to 4 weeks, while the sedative effect is often felt after the first few doses.
Who Should Not Use Desyrel (Contraindications and Precautions)
Desyrel is not appropriate for everyone. Do not use trazodone if you have a known allergy to trazodone, nefazodone, or any component of the formulation. Additional situations require special caution or avoidance:
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): Do not use Desyrel with MAOIs or within 14 days of stopping an MAOI. Do not start an MAOI within 14 days of stopping Desyrel. Risk: serotonin syndrome.
- Linezolid or IV methylene blue: These agents can interact dangerously with serotonergic drugs; avoid combination unless medically necessary with close monitoring.
- Serious heart disease: Use caution if you have a history of heart attack, significant arrhythmias, or structural heart disease. Trazodone can prolong the QT interval at higher exposures and may worsen conduction abnormalities in susceptible individuals.
- Uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma: Antidepressants may precipitate angle-closure in predisposed patients; discuss risks with an eye specialist if applicable.
- Bipolar disorder: Antidepressants can precipitate mania or hypomania; screening and close monitoring are essential.
- Bleeding risks: Concomitant use with anticoagulants, antiplatelets, or NSAIDs may increase bleeding risk.
- Hyponatremia/SIADH risk: Older adults and those on diuretics are particularly susceptible.
- Liver or kidney impairment: Dosage adjustments and careful monitoring may be necessary.
- Alcohol or sedative use disorder: Additive sedation increases risk of falls, accidents, and respiratory depression.
Children and adolescents: Antidepressants, including trazodone, carry an FDA boxed warning regarding increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults. Desyrel is not approved for pediatric depression; if considered off-label, it requires specialist oversight and close monitoring.
How to Take Desyrel: Instructions and Dosing Guidance
Always follow your prescriber’s instructions. General guidance to support safe use:
- Administration: Take Desyrel shortly after a meal or light snack, typically in the evening. Food can improve absorption and reduce dizziness. The sedating effect makes bedtime dosing common.
- Formulations: Immediate-release tablets are most widely available; extended-release products have been available but may be less common. Do not crush extended-release tablets. Splitting immediate-release tablets is usually acceptable if they are scored and your prescriber agrees.
- Starting dose: For depression, many clinicians start at 50 to 100 mg at bedtime and gradually titrate. Usual antidepressant doses range from 150 to 300 mg/day in divided doses for immediate-release; some patients require up to 400 mg/day (outpatient) or 600 mg/day (inpatient) under close supervision. For off-label insomnia, lower doses (e.g., 25 to 100 mg at bedtime) are often used.
- Onset: Sedation can occur with the first dose; mood improvement usually takes 2 to 4 weeks, with full benefit sometimes requiring 6 to 8 weeks and careful dose adjustments.
- Missed dose: If you miss a dose and it’s close to bedtime, take it when remembered. If it’s near the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose—do not double up. If you miss multiple doses, contact your prescriber for advice.
- Do not stop abruptly: Sudden discontinuation can cause withdrawal-like symptoms (e.g., sleep changes, irritability, flu-like symptoms). Your clinician will help you taper gradually.
What to Expect: Efficacy, Sleep Effects, and Daytime Function
Many patients notice improved sleep continuity within days due to the antihistamine and 5-HT2A antagonism. As antidepressant effects build, you may observe brighter mood, less anxious rumination, and improved energy. If daytime grogginess occurs, speak with your prescriber—dose timing, dose size, or switching to divided dosing (for depression treatment) may help. Some patients benefit from an evening-dominant dose to concentrate sedation at night while preserving daytime alertness.
Combine medication with evidence-based psychotherapy (such as CBT) and healthy routines. Regular sleep and wake times, light physical activity, and reduced alcohol can amplify benefits and reduce side effects.
Drug and Supplement Interactions
Trazodone is metabolized primarily by CYP3A4. Interactions can increase side effects or reduce efficacy. Discuss all prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements with your clinician.
- Serotonergic drugs: SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs, triptans, tramadol, linezolid, lithium, St. John’s wort, and others increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Combining serotonergic agents requires careful justification and monitoring.
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (increase trazodone levels): Azole antifungals (ketoconazole, itraconazole), macrolide antibiotics (clarithromycin), protease inhibitors (ritonavir), and grapefruit/grapefruit juice can raise levels and sedation. Dose reduction or avoidance may be necessary.
- CYP3A4 inducers (decrease trazodone levels): Carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampin, and some herbal products can lower trazodone concentrations and reduce efficacy.
- Other CNS depressants: Alcohol, benzodiazepines, sleep aids, opioids, muscle relaxants, and antihistamines can produce additive drowsiness and respiratory depression risks.
- QT-prolonging agents: Certain antipsychotics, macrolide antibiotics, methadone, and others may compound QT prolongation risk. Consider ECG monitoring in higher-risk patients.
- Anticoagulants and antiplatelets: Warfarin, DOACs, aspirin, and NSAIDs may increase bleeding risks when combined with serotonergic antidepressants, including trazodone.
- Digoxin and phenytoin: Trazodone may alter levels; monitoring is advised if combined.
This list is not exhaustive. Your pharmacist and prescriber can provide individualized interaction checks.
Important Safety Information and Warnings
- Boxed warning—suicidality: Antidepressants increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults. Monitor for new or worsening depression, agitation, irritability, or unusual behavior changes, especially during dose changes or early treatment.
- Serotonin syndrome: A rare but serious condition characterized by agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, sweating, fever, tremor, muscle stiffness, diarrhea, or shivering. Seek immediate medical care if suspected—especially when combining serotonergic agents.
- Orthostatic hypotension and falls: Dizziness or fainting upon standing is possible, particularly early in treatment, at higher doses, or in older adults. Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions.
- Priapism: Prolonged or painful erection lasting more than 4 hours requires urgent medical attention to prevent long-term damage. Though rare, this is a known trazodone risk.
- Cardiac conduction and QT prolongation: Use caution in patients with known QT prolongation, electrolyte abnormalities, or concurrent QT-prolonging medications. Report palpitations, syncope, or unexplained dizziness.
- Hyponatremia/SIADH: Symptoms may include headache, confusion, unsteadiness, and seizures; risk is higher in older adults and those on diuretics.
- Bleeding risk: Easy bruising, nosebleeds, or gastrointestinal bleeding can occur, especially with anticoagulants, antiplatelets, or NSAIDs.
- Mania/hypomania: Patients with bipolar spectrum disorders may experience mood elevation; screening and mood-stabilizer strategies may be needed.
- Angle-closure glaucoma: Susceptible individuals should be monitored; seek urgent eye care for acute eye pain or vision changes.
- Liver effects: Rare cases of hepatic injury have been reported; watch for dark urine, jaundice, severe fatigue, or upper right abdominal pain.
- Driving and machinery: Desyrel may cause drowsiness and blurred vision. Do not drive or operate hazardous machinery until you know how you respond.
- Alcohol: Avoid alcohol; it can markedly enhance sedation and impair coordination.
- Pregnancy and lactation: If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, discuss risks and benefits. Small amounts may pass into breast milk; observe infants for sedation or feeding issues. Late-pregnancy use of serotonergic antidepressants has been associated with transient neonatal symptoms; delivery planning may include monitoring.
Possible Side Effects of Desyrel
Many people tolerate Desyrel well, especially at lower bedtime doses. Common side effects are often dose-related and may improve with time.
Common effects:
- Drowsiness, fatigue, or grogginess (especially in the morning)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness, particularly on standing
- Headache
- Dry mouth
- Nausea, constipation, or stomach discomfort
- Blurred vision
- Nervousness or restlessness in some patients
- Nasal congestion
- Muscle aches
Serious effects—seek medical attention immediately if you experience:
- Signs of allergic reaction: rash, hives, itching, swelling of face/lips/tongue, trouble breathing
- Chest pain, fainting, rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Severe dizziness, confusion, or agitation
- Prolonged or painful erections (priapism)
- Seizures
- Shortness of breath or signs of stroke (sudden weakness, trouble speaking, severe headache)
- Serotonin syndrome symptoms as noted above
- Unusual bleeding or bruising, black/tarry stools, vomiting blood
- Severe nausea/vomiting, dark urine, yellowing of eyes/skin
If side effects persist or interfere with daily life, contact your health care provider; small dose changes, timing adjustments, or supportive measures can make a significant difference.
Storage and Handling
- Store at room temperature, 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), in a tight, light-resistant container.
- Protect from moisture, heat, and light. Do not store in the bathroom. Avoid temperatures above 104°F (40°C).
- Keep out of reach of children and pets. Use child-resistant caps.
- Do not use tablets that are chipped, discolored, or past the expiration date. Ask your pharmacist about proper disposal.
Active Ingredient and Available Formulations
Active ingredient: Trazodone hydrochloride. Desyrel is the branded version; multiple generics are available. Immediate-release tablets are most common (various strengths, often 50 mg and 100 mg). Extended-release formulations have existed but may not be widely available in all markets. Your pharmacist can help identify an equivalent generic trazodone product if Desyrel brand is not stocked.
Practical Tips for Safer Use and Better Outcomes
- Start low, go slow: Especially if you are sensitive to sedation or dizziness, gradual titration minimizes side effects.
- Time it right: Most people take Desyrel at bedtime. If daytime doses are needed for depression treatment, ask your clinician about dividing the total daily dose to balance efficacy and alertness.
- Hydration and position changes: Drink water and rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to reduce lightheadedness.
- Avoid alcohol: Both Desyrel and alcohol depress the central nervous system; together they can impair judgment and coordination.
- Pair with therapy: Cognitive-behavioral therapy and structured sleep hygiene can enhance outcomes for depression and insomnia.
- Consistent schedule: Take your dose at the same time daily. Use a pill organizer or reminder app to maintain adherence.
- Monitor mood and sleep: Keep a brief log of symptoms, side effects, and sleep patterns to guide conversations with your clinician.
- Report new medicines: Before starting or stopping any medication or supplement, check for interactions.
Examples of When Desyrel May Be Considered
- Major depressive disorder where insomnia or nighttime anxiety is prominent.
- Patients who had sexual side effects or activation with SSRIs/SNRIs and require an alternative approach.
- As an adjunct to another antidepressant to improve sleep continuity when other hypnotics are not desirable.
These examples are illustrative. The choice of an antidepressant is individualized, taking into account medical history, concurrent medications, prior treatment responses, and personal preferences.
When to Contact Your Clinician
- Worsening depression, new or increased suicidal thoughts, agitation, or unusual behavior changes.
- Persistent daytime sedation that does not improve after the first 1 to 2 weeks.
- Severe dizziness, falls, or signs of orthostatic hypotension.
- Symptoms of serotonin syndrome, priapism, allergic reactions, or significant bleeding.
- Pregnancy planning, new pregnancy, or breastfeeding—discuss management to optimize safety for mother and baby.
Cost, Access, and Responsible Purchasing
Generic trazodone is widely available and typically inexpensive, which is helpful for long-term treatment of depression or chronic insomnia. Prices vary by pharmacy, dose, and insurance coverage. Discount programs and pharmacy price comparison tools can reduce out-of-pocket costs. If you see online offers to “buy Desyrel without prescription,” be cautious—such offers may be unsafe or unlawful. In the United States, trazodone is a prescription-only medication to ensure proper evaluation, dosing, and monitoring.
Desyrel U.S. Sale and Prescription Policy
In the United States, Desyrel (trazodone) is a prescription-only medication regulated by the FDA. Federal and state laws require a valid prescription from a licensed clinician for purchase and dispensing. This safeguard exists to protect patients from dangerous drug interactions, misdiagnosis, inappropriate dosing, and counterfeit products. Websites advertising “no-prescription” trazodone or Desyrel sales bypass these protections and may be operating outside U.S. law. Using such sources can expose you to serious health and legal risks.
Responsible online access typically involves a legitimate health care evaluation—either in person or via telehealth—followed by e-prescribing to a licensed pharmacy. This process ensures your medical history, current medications, and treatment goals are reviewed, and that appropriate follow-up is arranged.
HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Petersburg provides a legal and structured pathway for care by connecting patients with qualified clinicians who can evaluate symptoms and, when clinically appropriate, issue a valid prescription that is filled by licensed pharmacies. This approach complies with U.S. regulations and prioritizes safety, continuity of care, and medication quality. If you are considering Desyrel, schedule an evaluation rather than seeking “no prescription” sources. Your clinician can determine if trazodone is right for you, suggest alternatives if needed, and help you use the medication safely and effectively.
Desyrel FAQ
What is Desyrel (trazodone) and how does it work?
Desyrel is the brand name for trazodone, an antidepressant classified as a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI). It boosts serotonin signaling by weakly blocking its reuptake and also blocks certain serotonin receptors (5-HT2A/2C), which can lessen anxiety and improve sleep architecture. It also has antihistamine and alpha-1 blocking effects, contributing to sedation and possible low blood pressure.
What is Desyrel used to treat?
Desyrel is approved for major depressive disorder in adults. Clinicians also commonly use it off-label for insomnia, especially in people with depression or anxiety, and sometimes for anxiety disorders, PTSD-related sleep disturbance, and adjunctive treatment of chronic pain with sleep issues.
How long does Desyrel take to work for depression and sleep?
Some people notice improved sleep within the first few days at bedtime doses, but mood benefits for depression typically take 2–4 weeks, with full effect by 6–8 weeks at therapeutic doses. Dose adjustments and regular follow-up help optimize response.
How should I take Desyrel for best results?
Take it exactly as prescribed, usually with a light snack or meal to reduce nausea. For depression, doses are often divided during the day or taken at bedtime due to drowsiness; for sleep, a single bedtime dose is common. Do not crush extended-release tablets if prescribed. Avoid abrupt discontinuation; taper with your prescriber if stopping.
What are common side effects of Desyrel?
Sleepiness, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, nausea, constipation, blurred vision, and orthostatic hypotension (lightheadedness when standing) are common. Many effects lessen after the first couple of weeks; taking it at night and rising slowly can help.
What serious side effects should I watch for?
Seek urgent care for priapism (painful, prolonged erection), fainting, irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness, seizures, signs of serotonin syndrome (agitation, sweating, diarrhea, fever, tremor, confusion), severe allergic reaction, or thoughts of self-harm. Rarely, hyponatremia (low sodium) or QT prolongation can occur, especially in older adults or those on interacting medications.
Can Desyrel help with sleep?
Yes, trazodone is frequently used off-label for insomnia due to its sedative properties, especially when insomnia coexists with depression or anxiety. It may improve sleep continuity without the dependence risk seen with some hypnotics, though next-day grogginess can occur and the optimal dose is the lowest that works.
Does Desyrel affect sexual function?
Compared with SSRIs, trazodone tends to cause fewer issues with libido or orgasm, but it carries a rare risk of priapism in males, which is a medical emergency. Report any painful or prolonged erections immediately.
Will Desyrel cause weight gain?
Weight effects are generally neutral to modest. Some people gain a small amount due to improved sleep or appetite changes, while others lose weight from nausea. Tracking weight and lifestyle habits can help.
Is Desyrel habit-forming or addictive?
Desyrel is not considered addictive and does not cause classic dependence like benzodiazepines. However, stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal-like symptoms (insomnia, anxiety, irritability), so tapering is recommended.
What should I avoid while taking Desyrel?
Avoid alcohol and other sedatives that can intensify drowsiness and impair coordination. Use caution with driving or using machinery until you know how you respond. Do not combine with MAOIs or within 14 days of MAOI use. Consult your clinician before adding supplements like St. John’s wort or tryptophan.
Which medications interact with Desyrel?
High-risk interactions include MAOIs, linezolid, and methylene blue (serotonin syndrome risk). Other serotonergic drugs (SSRIs/SNRIs, triptans, tramadol) raise serotonin syndrome risk. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (ketoconazole, ritonavir, clarithromycin) can raise trazodone levels; inducers (carbamazepine, rifampin) can lower them. Additive QT-prolonging drugs and CNS depressants increase risks.
Do I need any monitoring while on Desyrel?
Your clinician may monitor mood, suicidality (especially early in treatment), blood pressure, sodium in at-risk patients, and consider an ECG if you have heart disease, electrolyte abnormalities, or are on QT-prolonging drugs. Report falls, fainting, or palpitations.
What should I do if I miss a dose or take too much?
If you miss a dose and it’s close to bedtime, take it when remembered unless it’s almost time for the next dose; never double up. Overdose can cause severe drowsiness, low blood pressure, arrhythmias, seizures, or serotonin syndrome—seek emergency care or call poison control immediately.
Can I drink alcohol if I take Desyrel?
It’s best to avoid alcohol while on Desyrel. Alcohol amplifies sedation, dizziness, and impaired coordination, raising the risk of falls, accidents, and breathing suppression when combined with other depressants.
How long should I wait to take Desyrel after drinking?
If you’ve had a small amount of alcohol, wait until you are fully sober and at least several hours have passed before taking your next dose, ideally skipping the dose if you feel intoxicated. After heavy drinking or binge episodes, skip the dose and resume the following day; discuss patterns with your clinician.
Is Desyrel safe during pregnancy?
Data are limited. Some studies suggest low overall risk, but potential for neonatal adaptation symptoms (jitteriness, feeding issues) exists if used late in pregnancy. Decisions are individualized—untreated depression also carries risks. Discuss benefits and alternatives with your obstetric and mental health clinicians.
Can I take Desyrel while breastfeeding?
Trazodone appears in breast milk in low amounts, and small studies suggest minimal effects on infants, but data are limited. Monitor the infant for excessive sleepiness, poor feeding, or irritability. Coordinate with your pediatrician and prescriber.
Should I stop Desyrel before surgery or anesthesia?
Do not stop without guidance. Many anesthesiologists continue trazodone to avoid withdrawal and rebound insomnia, but they will account for sedation and blood pressure effects. Provide a full medication list, including supplements, well before the procedure.
Is Desyrel appropriate for older adults?
It can be used cautiously. Older adults are more sensitive to sedation, orthostatic hypotension, falls, hyponatremia, and cardiac effects. Start at low doses, monitor closely, and review other fall-risk medications.
What if I have liver or kidney disease?
Trazodone is metabolized in the liver. In hepatic impairment, lower starting doses and slower titration are prudent; severe liver disease warrants careful monitoring. Renal impairment usually requires caution rather than formal dose changes, but individualized adjustments may be needed.
Can I drive or operate machinery on Desyrel?
Not until you know how it affects you. Desyrel can cause next-day drowsiness, slowed reaction time, and dizziness. If you feel sedated or lightheaded, avoid driving and discuss dose timing or adjustment with your clinician.
Is it safe to combine Desyrel with opioids or benzodiazepines?
Use extreme caution. Sedation and breathing suppression risks increase when combined with opioids, benzodiazepines, or other CNS depressants. If co-prescribed, doses should be conservative with clear monitoring and avoidance of alcohol.
How does Desyrel compare with sertraline (an SSRI) for depression?
Sertraline is an SSRI with robust antidepressant and anxiety evidence and is activating for some; it more commonly causes sexual dysfunction and GI upset. Desyrel is more sedating, often helpful for insomnia, and has lower sexual side effect rates but carries risks of orthostatic hypotension and rare priapism. Choice depends on symptom profile, tolerability, and comorbid sleep issues.
Desyrel vs fluoxetine: which is better?
Fluoxetine is activating with a long half-life and strong evidence across depression and anxiety disorders; it can cause insomnia, sexual dysfunction, and early nausea. Desyrel may be preferred if sleep maintenance insomnia is prominent or sexual side effects are a concern. Fluoxetine may suit daytime energy and adherence due to once-daily dosing.
Desyrel vs venlafaxine (SNRI): key differences?
Venlafaxine treats depression, GAD, and some pain syndromes; it can raise blood pressure and cause withdrawal with missed doses, and sexual side effects are common. Desyrel is more sedating, less likely to raise blood pressure, and often used at night. For patients with chronic pain or severe anxiety, venlafaxine may be favored; for insomnia or SSRI/SNRI sexual side effects, Desyrel can be advantageous.
Desyrel vs bupropion: which is more activating?
Bupropion is stimulating, often improves energy, concentration, and sexual function, but can worsen anxiety and insomnia and lowers seizure threshold. Desyrel is sedating and can improve sleep but may cause daytime drowsiness. They are sometimes combined to balance sleep and energy while mitigating sexual side effects.
Desyrel vs mirtazapine for sleep and mood?
Both can aid sleep. Mirtazapine is strongly sedating at lower doses and often increases appetite and weight; it’s effective for depression and anxiety. Desyrel is sedating with a more neutral weight profile but has rare priapism risk. For underweight patients with poor appetite, mirtazapine may be preferred; for weight-conscious patients, Desyrel may be chosen.
Desyrel vs amitriptyline (TCA): safety and side effects?
Amitriptyline is effective for depression, neuropathic pain, and migraine prevention but has strong anticholinergic effects (constipation, urinary retention, confusion), weight gain, and higher cardiotoxicity in overdose. Desyrel generally has fewer anticholinergic effects and is safer in overdose but can cause orthostatic hypotension and sedation.
Desyrel vs nefazodone: are they similar?
Both are SARIs. Nefazodone use has plummeted due to rare but severe liver failure risk and strong CYP3A4 inhibition. Desyrel lacks the pronounced hepatotoxicity signal of nefazodone and is more commonly used. If considering nefazodone, intensive liver monitoring is required; most clinicians choose alternatives.
Desyrel vs vortioxetine: cognition and tolerability?
Vortioxetine has multimodal serotonergic actions with evidence for improved cognitive symptoms in depression and a relatively favorable sexual side effect profile. It can cause nausea but is not sedating. Desyrel is more sedating and helpful for sleep; vortioxetine may be better for daytime functioning and cognition.
Desyrel vs vilazodone: anxiety and sexual side effects?
Vilazodone (SSRI/5-HT1A partial agonist) may cause fewer sexual side effects than traditional SSRIs and can help anxiety but often causes GI upset initially. It is not sedating. Desyrel may be chosen when insomnia dominates; vilazodone when daytime anxiety and sexual side effects are key concerns.
Desyrel vs quetiapine for insomnia in depression?
Quetiapine, an atypical antipsychotic, is sedating and approved for bipolar depression and adjunctive MDD but carries metabolic risks (weight gain, dyslipidemia, diabetes) and extrapyramidal symptoms. Desyrel is often tried first for insomnia due to a gentler metabolic profile; quetiapine may be reserved for specific mood indications.
Desyrel vs low-dose doxepin for sleep?
Low-dose doxepin (3–6 mg) is FDA-approved for sleep maintenance insomnia and is minimally anticholinergic at that dose. It’s less likely to cause next-day grogginess than trazodone for some. Desyrel may help both mood and sleep but with more orthostatic hypotension risk. Choice depends on whether depression coexists.
Desyrel vs hydroxyzine for anxiety and sleep?
Hydroxyzine is an antihistamine that reduces anxiety and aids sleep without dependence but can cause anticholinergic effects and next-day sedation. Desyrel is more targeted for depression with sedative benefits at night. For short-term anxiety or situational insomnia, hydroxyzine may be used; for chronic depression with insomnia, Desyrel may fit better.
Desyrel vs benzodiazepines for sleep and anxiety?
Benzodiazepines work quickly but carry risks of dependence, tolerance, cognitive impairment, falls, and breathing suppression, especially with opioids or alcohol. Desyrel is not habit-forming and may be safer long-term but is slower to improve anxiety and can cause orthostatic hypotension and next-day sedation. Nonpharmacologic therapies remain first-line for insomnia and anxiety when feasible.