What is the brand name for Trazodone?
The brand name for Trazodone is Desyrel.
PTCE Top 200 · #21
Trazodone
Desyrel
Trazodone is the generic name for the brand-name drug Desyrel. It is an antidepressant (serotonin antagonist/reuptake inhibitor) used to treat depression, insomnia. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Trazodone ranks #21 and is one of the most frequently tested cns/psych medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Trazodone |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Desyrel |
| Drug class | Antidepressant (serotonin antagonist/reuptake inhibitor) |
| Class group | CNS/Psych |
| Common use | depression, insomnia |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Trazodone used for?
Antidepressant indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults.
What drug class is Trazodone?
Trazodone is an Antidepressant (serotonin antagonist/reuptake inhibitor) in the CNS/Psych group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Trazodone
- arrow_rightDrowsiness/sedation
- arrow_rightDizziness
- arrow_rightDry mouth
- arrow_rightNausea
- arrow_rightHeadache
Major interactions
- arrow_rightMAO inhibitors (contraindicated) → serotonin syndrome risk
- arrow_rightOther serotonergic drugs → serotonin syndrome risk
- arrow_rightCNS depressants (alcohol, sedatives) ↑ sedation/impairment
- arrow_rightStrong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase trazodone levels; QT‑prolonging drugs increase arrhythmia risk
Is Trazodone a controlled substance?
No. Trazodone is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
warning Boxed warning
BOXED WARNING: Antidepressants can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults—monitor closely.
How to remember Trazodone (PTCE mnemonic)
TRAZ-odone, often dosed when the day's 'DONE' — SARI for sleep/depression. Heavy sedation, orthostasis, rare priapism (call MD).
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Though technically an antidepressant, trazodone is most often prescribed off-label at low doses as a sleep aid — a frequent 'what's it really for' exam point.
Trazodone FAQ
What is Trazodone used for?
Trazodone is used to treat depression, insomnia. Antidepressant indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults.
What drug class is Trazodone?
Trazodone is an Antidepressant (serotonin antagonist/reuptake inhibitor) (CNS/Psych group).
Is Trazodone a controlled substance?
No. Trazodone is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the CNS/Psych group
Drill Trazodone the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).