Does trazodone come in 300 mg? (3+ dosage strengths)

This article will answer the question, “Does trazodone come in 300 mg?” We will discuss the available dosage forms and strength along with the recommended dosing of trazodone.

Does trazodone come in 300 mg?  

Yes, trazodone is available in 300mg tablet form. Trazodone is an antidepressant of class serotonin-antagonist and reuptake inhibitor, which inhibits the reuptake of serotonin and also blocks histamine and alpha-1-adrenergic receptors. Trazodone helps treat symptoms of depression, anxiety, drug-induced insomnia and other sleep-related disorders. (1)

Trazodone is also available in the following dosage forms: (1,2,3)

• Tablet: 50mg, 100mg, 150mg, 300mg.
• Tablet extended-release: 150mg, 300mg.
• Capsules: 50mg, 100mg. 
• Liquid form: 10mg or 20mg in every 1ml. 

A dose of 300 mg can be taken in a divided dose or as a single dose. Be cautious and avoid double dosing, as >600mg of trazodone can lead to an overdose and is harmful. If you have accidentally taken a double dose, seek medical help immediately. (2)

What does the research suggest? 

Trazodone helps treat a variety of symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, drug-induced insomnia, and sleep-related disorders. Trazodone has shown positive results in treating nightmares and improving sleep quality in patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). (1)

A study was done to evaluate the efficacy, tolerability and safety of trazodone 300mg in patients diagnosed with moderate to severe depression. Eighty patients completed five weeks of treatment with trazodone, and clinical improvement was seen with six days of treatment. The most common side effects reported were somnolence and fatigue. Finally, the study concluded that the extended-release formulation of trazodone showed promising results in treating depression. (4) 

A higher dose of trazodone > 600mg is not recommended as it can lead to an overdose. Research studies have shown fatality with ingestion of >4 mg of trazodone. The complications involved with overdosing on trazodone are hypotension, respiratory arrest, seizures, priapism, coma, renal failure, cardiac arrest, hyponatremia, fever, shock, multiple organ failure and death. (1,5)

What is the recommended dose of trazodone?  

The initial recommended dose of trazodone is 150mg. However, the dosing of trazodone varies among individuals as they respond to the drug in a specific manner. The dosing of trazodone ranges between 50mg to 300mg. If well tolerated, it can be titrated up to 600mg twice a day under observation. (1)

The starting treatment of trazodone is with the lowest dose possible, 25mg or 75 mg, which is then titrated to 150mg per day and can be increased up to 300mg in outpatients and 600mg in inpatients, depending upon your condition. Trazodone is titrated by increasing  50mg every 3 to 4 days as needed. (1)

The dose of trazodone should not exceed 600mg per day. Trazodone is recommended to be administered after meals to avoid light-headedness and orthostatic hypertension. It is recommended to take trazodone at bedtime due to its sedative properties. Taking it in the morning may interfere with daily activities. (1)

It is not recommended to self-medicate with antidepressants, as overdose or abrupt discontinuation of antidepressants can worsen your condition. Always consult a physician for a proper diagnosis and dosing of medication. 

What are the factors influencing trazodone dosing? 

The dosing of trazodone can be influenced by some factors, such as: 

Medical condition: The nature and severity of the illness determines the dosing of the drug. 

Individual response: Every individual responds to the drug in a different manner, and the dosing pattern for each individual varies depending upon their metabolism and response. 

Age and weight: Elderly patients need careful monitoring and low dosing because of their reduced physiological functioning. In some cases, weight can influence the dosing of medications. 

Liver and kidney dysfunction: These organs play an important role in metabolising and eliminating the drug from the body. Hence, the dosage needs to be carefully managed in patients with hepatic and renal dysfunction. 

Side effects: If you experience side effects at a particular dose, adjustment of the dose is required to avoid the side effects. 

Concomitant medications: Trazodone can interact with other antidepressants, such as Lexapro, Cymbalta, etc. If an increased dose of trazodone is given with this combination, it can cause serotonin syndrome. Hence, careful monitoring is required while using trazodone with other antidepressants. 

What should be known before taking trazodone 300mg? 

Trazodone is an antidepressant which helps treat symptoms of depression, sleep-related disorders, anxiety, Alzheimer’s disease, substance abuse, bulimia, PTSD, pain and fibromyalgia. Trazodone is used in combination to treat insomnia induced by antidepressants such as Cymbalta, Lexapro, etc. (1,2)

Trazodone acts by increasing the level of serotonin in the brain, which helps elevate mood, concentration, attention and other cognitive functions. Trazodone acts on serotonin 2A receptors, H1 receptors and alpha-1-adrenergic receptors, which induces sedation. (1)

It is recommended to take trazodone in the evening or at bedtime due to its sedative effect. Concomitant use of trazodone with monoamine oxidase inhibitors, linezolid, triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, aspirin, NSAIDs and fentanyl is contraindicated. When taking trazodone in combination with other antidepressants, precaution should be taken as it can cause serotonin syndrome. (1,2)

Symptoms of serotonin can range from mild (nausea, vomiting, hypertension, increased heart rate, etc) to severe (seizures, tremors, altered mental status, rhabdomyolysis, shock, etc). If you are experiencing any unwanted side effects, seek medical help immediately. 

A high dose of trazodone is associated with an increased risk of side effects, such as (1,2)

• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Dizziness/light-headedness
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Orthostatic hypotension
• Hypertension
• Tremors
• Priapism (Painful erection)
• Mania
• Suicidal thoughts 

Who should not take trazodone? 

There are a few populations where trazodone should be used with caution, such as

 As per my knowledge, trazodone is available in 50 mg, 100 mg,150 mg and 300 mg. It is important to check the dose strength of the medication before consuming it to avoid accidental overdosing. You can use a pill organiser to make sure you consume an appropriate dose of trazodone as prescribed by your doctor. If you have consumed >600 mg of trazodone, seek medical help immediately.  

References