Does trazodone come in liquid form? (+3 uses)

In this article, we will discuss whether trazodone comes in liquid form. We will also compare liquid and solid dosage forms of trazodone, and share the uses and side effects of liquid form of trazodone. 

Does trazodone come in liquid form?

Yes, trazodone comes in liquid form. In its liquid formulation, trazodone hydrochloride is available as an oral solution. Trazodone, an antidepressant, is classified as a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI) (1). 

Trazodone hydrochloride is the salt form of trazodone which is used in medications. Trazodone is available in solid and liquid formulations. In solid form, it is available as tablets or capsules. 

The available strengths of trazodone hydrochloride oral tablets include 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, and 300 mg (1). The available strengths of trazodone hydrochloride capsules include 50mg and 100mg. 

In liquid formulation, trazodone is available as an oral solution. Each ml of liquid contains 10 or 20mg of trazodone. One available oral solution of trazodone contains 50 mg of trazodone hydrochloride per 5 ml (2). 

The uses, side effects, and therapeutic effects of liquid and solid formulations of trazodone are similar. However, due to differences in formulation, they offer different benefits to the user. 

How does the liquid form of trazodone compare to tablets?

Liquid and solid formulation of trazodone have their advantages and disadvantages. The main advantage of a liquid formulation of trazodone is its ease of swallowing so it can be used by individuals with swallowing difficulties. 

In liquid formulations, dose adjustment is easier as different volumes of the solution can be measured according to the requirement. In comparison, trazodone tablets are in fixed doses, although they can be cut in half. 

Absorption, the onset of action, and the bioavailability of the liquid formulation of a drug are faster than the solid formulation. It is because a tablet has to dissolve before it can be absorbed into the body.

In comparison, the solid form of a drug is more stable than the liquid form. Liquid forms are less chemically stable and susceptible to microbial contamination once opened. Tablets are more cost-effective and easier to store than solutions (3). 

Additionally, in oral solutions, taste masking is difficult, and different additives are required to cover the unpleasant taste which makes it more expensive. (3). Tablets also allow to control the release of medication in the body. 

Trazodone is also available for immediate release and prolonged release formulation. Other than tablets and oral solutions, trazodone can also be administered intravenously. 

What are the uses of the liquid form of trazodone? 

Oral solution of trazodone can manage all types of depression including the one with anxiety (2). The uses of oral solutions are similar to that of tablets. Trazodone is a SARI that increases serotonin levels and treats depression. 

Trazodone has antagonist effects on some serotonin, histamine (H1), and alpha-1 adrenergic receptors. This activity produces sedation, which makes trazodone useful for sleep disturbances.

As an antidepressant, trazodone is effective in treating major depressive disorder (MDD) and is FDA-approved for this purpose. As a sedative, trazodone is used off-label for insomnia (1). 

Due to the similar active ingredient, the liquid formulation of trazodone also has similar therapeutic effects and uses. Off-label uses of trazodone include (1): 

• post-traumatic stress disorder
• anxiety 
• Alzheimer’s disease
• fibromyalgia
• substance abuse
• bulimia
• obstructive sleep apnea

How to take the liquid form of trazodone properly?

Take the liquid form or oral solution of trazodone exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. If you are allergic to trazodone or other substances present in the oral solution, do not take it.

Ingredients in oral solution of trazodone may include (2): 

• sorbitol
• propylene glycol
• benzoic acid
• sodium

You must inform your healthcare provider about the medications you are taking before using the trazodone oral solution because some medicines may interact with trazodone. The medicines that interact with trazodone’s oral solution include (2): 

• monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
• triptans
• tricyclic antidepressants
• antihistamines
• sedatives
• warfarin
• medications for epilepsy
• medications for hypertension

For optimal effects, you must take the oral solution of trazodone with or after food as it reduces side effects. If you are prescribed to take the oral solution once daily, then you should take it at night because it can cause sedation. 

If you experience suicidal thoughts while taking this medication, immediately contact your healthcare provider. Oral solution of trazodone can cause dizziness so do not drive or operate heavy machinery if you experience this side effect (2). 

What are the dosage recommendations for a liquid form of trazodone?

As per the medication guide for the oral solution of trazodone hydrochloride, the adult dosage for depression starts from 150 mg or 15 ml each day. The dose should not exceed 600 mg or 60 ml each day (2).

For the elderly, the dose range of the oral solution of trazodone is 100-300 mg. This means the elderly can take 10-30 ml of oral solution each day (2).

The dose and frequency of oral solution of trazodone is decided by the healthcare provider based on your symptoms, condition, and individual characteristics.

If you experience no change in your symptoms or feel that your medication is too strong, you should discuss this with your healthcare provider and do not change the dose by yourself. 

What are the side effects of the liquid form of trazodone? 

The side effects of the liquid form of trazodone are as follows (1,2):

• tiredness
• lightheadedness
• dry mouth
• QT prolongation
• constipation
• headache
• orthostatic hypotension
• blurry vision
• suicidal thoughts
• reduces appetite
• nightmares
• changes in sex drive
• confusion 

As per my understanding, trazodone is available in liquid form. Each ml of liquid contains 10 or 20 mg of trazodone. The liquid formulations provide ease of swallowing and have a faster onset of action, absorption, and bioavailability. 

The solid dosage form of trazodone has its advantages over the liquid form. The choice of formulation depends on the patient’s preference and the healthcare provider.

The uses, therapeutic effects, and side effects of the liquid form of trazodone are similar to those of solid form. You must contact your healthcare provider for the appropriate dose and formulation. 

References