Trazodone side effects range from mild to serious. Tolerance and physical dependence can occur quickly and are likely to occur. Next-day drowsiness or cognitive issues can occur, which could potentially lead to parasomnia, a collection of sleep disorders that involve abnormal movements, emotions, perceptions, and behaviors while falling asleep, sleeping, or when waking up. However, ambien can lead to some notable side effects. Because of this, ambien is generally considered more effective than trazodone. Comparatively, trazodone can take time to become consistently effective. Ambien has a short half-life, meaning it works quickly and doesn’t remain in the body for very long. While it isn’t entirely clear how, it’s believed that ambien works by increasing the availability of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a primary inhibitory neurotransmitter that slows the action of brain neurons leading to sedation. It acts similarly to many tranquilizers or sedatives, including more potent “benzos” like Xanax or Valium. Rather than a SARI, ambien is a benzodiazepine. How do they differ? To start, ambien and trazodone affect the brain differently. Some recommend it off-label as an alternative to ambien, another common sleep aid. This can decrease feelings of depression, as the higher serotonin levels are used to stimulate more neurons.Ĭall us at 85 to speak with a recovery specialist.Īlthough trazodone is not a federally approved sleep medication, its sedative properties have made it effective enough at treating insomnia that many doctors feel comfortable using it as such. This allows serotonin to become more readily available, eventually building up in the brain and occupying the spaces that naturally exist between nerve cells. Its most common side effect is sedation, which may help a person fall or stay asleep, or get back to sleep if they wake during the night.Īs a SARI, trazodone works by preventing the reabsorption of serotonin. You might see it under the brand names Oleptro or Desyrel.Īlthough the FDA has only approved trazodone to treat depression, doctors may also prescribe it off-label as a sleep aid for those struggling with insomnia. Originally created as an antidepressant, it has been successfully used for the treatment of depression, including depression in those with certain forms of bipolar disorder. Trazodone is classified as a serotonin antagonist reuptake inhibitor (SARI), a drug group that blocks the reabsorption of serotonin. Here’s what you need to know if your doctor has suggested trazodone to treat depression or sleep disorders. It also has side effects, even when prescribed by a medical professional. While its longevity means its effects are well studied, trazodone isn’t ideal for all situations. Doctors have used this drug since the 1960s to treat a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety, and insomnia - although its primary purpose is as an antidepressant. Trazodone is one of the oldest pharmaceuticals on the market.

Trazodone for insomnia vs depression