What does Desyrel look like? (3+ appearances)

This article will discuss the appearance of Desyrel. Additionally, it will cover how Desyrel may appear different due to storage conditions or expiration, as well as the proper handling and storage instructions. The article will further explain how to correctly use the different strengths of Desyrel tablets.

What does Desyrel look like?

Desyrel is a brand of trazodone, and it’s generally yellow-orange and circular. However, its imprints vary based on the dosage and strength. It is typically found in tablet form for oral administration. 

Different companies and manufacturers may produce trazodone under different brands, resulting in variations in color, shape, odor, and overall packaging. Therefore, it is important to be familiar with the specific appearance of Desyrel to correctly identify and administer the appropriate drug and dosage. 

It is recommended to thoroughly check the imprint, color, shape, and packaging of the prescribed medication.

What is Desyrel?

Desyrel contains trazodone hydrochloride, which acts as a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor, meaning it blocks the reuptake of serotonin in the brain. It works by inhibiting both the serotonin transporter and serotonin type 2 receptors [1].

In addition, Desyrel also blocks histamine and alpha-1-adrenergic receptors. When taken in low doses, Desyrel (trazodone hydrochloride) primarily affects serotonin type 2 receptors, adrenergic receptors, and histamine receptors [1].

This results in its sedative and sleep-inducing effects. However, when taken in high doses, Desyrel’s main effect is to inhibit the reuptake of serotonin and increase it, which is responsible for its antidepressant effects [1].

What are the physical characteristics of Desyrel?

Desyrel comes in various strengths and dosages, each with its distinct physical characteristics. The 50 mg tablet is yellowish-orange in color and round in shape. It also has “DESYREL” and “MJ775” engraved on one side, while the other side is plain [2]. 

The 100 mg tablet of Desyrel shares a similar shape to the 50 mg tablet. However, it is white and has the imprint “DESYREL” and “MJ776” debossed, while the other side remains plain [2]. 

As for the 150 mg strength, it is available in a different formulation with a few differences in the physical characteristics.

The 150 mg tablet is white and rectangular, with a scored surface. It is trisected on both sides, featuring the letters “P” and “007” on one side and the numbers “50”, “50”, and “50” on the other side. Each edge of the tablet is bisected [3]. 

Lastly, the 300 mg Desyrel tablet has a unique appearance. It is also white and rectangular, but it is trisected on one side only. On the trisected side, you will find the numbers “100”, “100”, “100” debossed. On the other side, it is bisected, bearing the letters “P” and “008” debossed [3].

When may Desyrel possibly look different?

Desyrel may appear different if it has been stored in poor conditions or if it has expired. For instance, the tablets may exhibit colors that differ from the ones mentioned earlier. If the drug has been exposed to moisture, it can display signs of moisture damage, such as a distorted shape and an uneven color.

Additionally, if the tablet has expired, you might observe signs of fungal or bacterial damage or other noticeable changes in the medication. Desyrel tablets are typically odorless; therefore, if you happen to notice an unusual smell emanating from the tablets, there is likely an issue.

How to correctly store Desyrel?

It is important to follow the handling and storage instructions to ensure the medication remains effective and safe to use. Here are the most important handling and storage instructions [3]:

• Store Desyrel at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit (20 and 25 degrees Celsius).

• Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and away from moisture and light.

• Do not store Desyrel in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink, where it can be exposed to moisture.

How can one use the correct score of Desyrel tablets?

To administer 50 mg, you have a few options: you can take a 50 mg tablet, break a 100 mg tablet in half, or take one-third of a 150 mg tablet. When breaking the 150 mg tablet, it’s best to break the score on either the left or right side.

For a dosage of 75 mg, the most practical solution is to break a 150 mg tablet in half. To take 100 mg, you can take two 50 mg tablets, a whole 100 mg tablet, one-third of a 300 mg tablet, or two-thirds of a 150 mg tablet.

If you choose to take one-third of a 300 mg tablet or two-thirds of a 150 mg tablet, break the score on one side, as mentioned earlier.

For a dosage of 150 mg, the simplest method is to use the whole 150 mg tablet. However, if you don’t have one, you can take three 50 mg tablets, one and a half of the 100 mg tablet, or half of the 300 mg tablet.

Depending on the tablets you have available, to take 200 mg of trazodone, you can take four 50 mg tablets, two 100 mg tablets, one and a third of a 150 mg tablet, or two-thirds of a 300 mg tablet.

For higher doses, it’s recommended to use 150 or 300 mg tablets to avoid dosing errors. Breaking down the tablets and taking multiple tablets may become complicated when the doses are high. Ensure that you purchase tablets with strengths suitable for your prescribed dosage and practical for administration.

Furthermore, it is recommended to avoid buying the 150 mg or 300 mg tablets if you’re taking trazodone for sleep, as the maximum required dose for sleep is 100 mg.

What are the available brands of trazodone other than Desyrel?

Here are some examples of the other available brands or formulations of trazodone [4,5]:

In conclusion, I believe that it is important to be familiar with the appearance of Desyrel, as different formulations and strengths may vary in their physical characteristics.

From my perspective, thoroughly checking the imprint, color, shape, and packaging of the prescribed medication is important for correct identification and administration. Following the storage instructions and checking for signs of spoilage or expiration is also important. 

Based on my knowledge, Desyrel comes in different dosages with distinct physical characteristics, such as color, shape, and imprints. However, the most commonly used tablets of Desyrel are yellow and circular. To use the appropriate dosage, breaking or taking certain fractions of tablets may be necessary.

Thus, I recommend purchasing tablets with suitable strengths for the prescribed dosages. Additionally, based on my research, there are other brands or formulations of trazodone available, such as Desyrel Dividose and Oleptro, each with its unique characteristics.

References