What is Trazodone?
Trazodone inhibits serotonin reuptake and blocks 5-HT2A receptors. Strong blockade of alpha-1 and histamine receptors makes it clearly sedating. In Germany it is approved for depression; at low doses it is used off-label for sleep problems.
How well studied is Trazodone?
Trazodone has been approved for depression for decades on the basis of registration trials. For insomnia without depression the evidence is weaker: some smaller studies show effects, but it is not approved for this use.
What side effects and risks does Trazodone have?
Common effects are tiredness, dizziness, dry mouth and gastrointestinal complaints; a drop in blood pressure on standing and falls are possible, especially with blood-pressure medication. Rarely priapism (erection lasting over 6 hours – an emergency), QT prolongation and arrhythmias. Combining it with other serotonergic drugs risks serotonin syndrome; MAO inhibitors are contraindicated, and strong CYP3A4 inhibitors and alcohol increase its effects. Like all antidepressants it carries a warning about suicidal thoughts in young people.
Is Trazodone approved in Germany?
In short: yes. Approved as a medicine in Germany and prescription-only. Not on the WADA Prohibited List. Taking it without medical supervision is dangerous because of interactions and cardiac risks.
Sources
Note: We deliberately do not list any doses here. For approved medicines, your doctor sets the dose; for unapproved substances there is no reliable information.