Does trazodone contain melatonin? (+3 differences)

By Ivan Kahwa
Page last updated: 30/01/2024 | Next review date: 30/01/2026
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Author bio

 

Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.

Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:

Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the  Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Professional Experience:

Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.

With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.

Education:

2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Publications:

▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7 

▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60 

▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.

https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683 

▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.

  https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004 

▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.

https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2 

▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.

https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600 

Published book Chapter

▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.

 https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4 

Submitted manuscripts Under Review:

▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience

▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine

▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology

Submitted book chapters under review

1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4:  Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6:  Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher:  Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.

2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors:  Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala  , Rachel Mbabazi  , Shabnoor Iqbal  , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press

 

You can view my works on the following professional sites:

 

Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa

 

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en

ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437

Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159 

 

 

 

 


Ivan Kahwa
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 In this article, we will discuss whether trazodone formulation contains melatonin. We will also explore the composition of trazodone formulation and highlight the key differences between trazodone and melatonin, including their mechanisms of action, uses, and side effects.

Does trazodone contain melatonin?

No, trazodone does not contain melatonin. Trazodone is an antidepressant drug marketed under various brand names such as Desyrel and Trazodone D. The typical formulation of trazodone contains trazodone hydrochloride as an active ingredient, with different binders, fillers, diluents, and disintegrants added as inactive ingredients or excipients (1).

Melatonin, on the other hand, is a hormone and is entirely different from trazodone. It is often used as a supplement to improve sleep. One well-known formulation containing melatonin is Circadin. Circadin and Adaflex are brand names for melatonin formulations, that incorporate melatonin as the primary active component (3).

What is the difference between trazodone and melatonin?

There is no specific product that combines trazodone and melatonin in a single formulation. These are two distinct therapeutic agents used for various purposes. The key differences between trazodone and melatonin include their mechanisms of action, uses, and side effects, which are discussed below:

Mechanism of action

Trazodone is an antidepressant medication that works by interfering with the levels of serotonin in the brain. It achieves this by inhibiting the reuptake of this neurotransmitter, which is responsible for its therapeutic benefits, including the regulation of mood and behavior in individuals with various mental disorders such as depression and anxiety (1).

Additionally, trazodone may also have an impact on the levels of norepinephrine, although to a lesser extent. Furthermore, this medication has the ability to block certain receptors, including 5-HT-2A and alpha-1-adrenergic receptors, contributing to its therapeutic effects in individuals with insomnia.

 On the other hand, melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that is also available in the market as a supplement to regulate sleep. It works by activating specific melatonin receptors responsible for regulating the sleep and wake cycle in humans. Additionally, melatonin reduces the levels of dopamine, another neurotransmitter in the brain, which may contribute to keeping you awake (2).

Side effects

While trazodone is generally considered a safe medication with a lower incidence of serious side effects, it may cause some mild to moderate side effects in some individuals. These may include (5):

  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • dizziness
  • drowsiness
  • agitation
  • headaches
  • fatigue
  • dry mouth
  • aggression
  • irritability
  • insomnia
  • weight changes

On the other hand, melatonin is generally considered safe for short-term use, but like any supplement, it may cause side effects in some individuals. Here are some potential side effects of melatonin (4):

  • somnolence
  • stomach discomfort
  • vivid dreams
  • nausea
  • vomiting
  • irritability
  • lightedheadnes
  • low body temperature 

Uses

Trazodone is an antidepressant medication that is frequently employed in the management of various health conditions, including mental disorders. Common indications for this medication may include (6):

  • depression
  • anxiety
  • post-traumatic stress disorder
  • obsessive-compulsive disorders
  • panic disorders
  • fibromyalgia
  • chronic pain
  • insomnia

On the other hand, melatonin, although not considered a traditional medication, is widely utilized as a supplement to address diverse sleep-related challenges. It has been commonly employed to mitigate sleep disturbances, alleviate insomnia, counteract the effects of jet lag, and enhance sleep in the elderly (2).

Can you combine trazodone with melatonin? 

Combining both trazodone and melatonin should be approached with caution, considering that both substances are involved in the regulation of sleep. The combination may have additive effects on your sleep, which can impact your health.

Using this combination should only be done under the supervision and guidance of a qualified healthcare professional after a thorough analysis of the risks and benefits. Both trazodone and melatonin share some common side effects, such as dizziness, drowsiness, sedation, and nausea, which may become more pronounced after combining these substances.

The decision to combine them depends on various factors, including your overall health, medical history, and specific sleep-related issues. Additionally, you should not combine these medications without consulting your healthcare provider to prevent unwanted and serious consequences.

In my opinion, the formulation of trazodone typically does not contain melatonin. Since both substances can regulate sleep, their combination should only be considered in cases where the benefits of therapy outweigh the risks.

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References

1.-

Shin JJ, Saadabadi A. Trazodone. [Updated 2022 Jul 10]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470560/

2.-

Pévet P. Melatonin. Dialogues Clin Neurosci. 2002 Mar;4(1):57-72. doi: 10.31887/DCNS.2002.4.1/ppevet. PMID: 22034091; PMCID: PMC3181670. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22034091/

3.-

Fatemeh G, Sajjad M, Niloufar R, Neda S, Leila S, Khadijeh M. Effect of melatonin supplementation on sleep quality: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Neurol. 2022 Jan;269(1):205-216. doi: 10.1007/s00415-020-10381-w. Epub 2021 Jan 8. PMID: 33417003. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33417003/

4.-

Savage RA, Zafar N, Yohannan S, et al. Melatonin. [Updated 2022 Aug 8]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534823/

5.-

Shin JJ, Saadabadi A. Trazodone. 2022 Jul 10. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 29262060. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29262060

6.-

Haria M, Fitton A, McTavish D. Trazodone. A review of its pharmacology, therapeutic use in depression and therapeutic potential in other disorders. Drugs Aging. 1994 Apr;4(4):331-55. doi: 10.2165/00002512-199404040-00006. PMID: 8019056. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8019056/

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