Posted by Cam W. on February 29, 2000, at 22:54:12
In reply to Re: Sleeping Aids!!, posted by Sarah, again... on February 29, 2000, at 22:39:31
Sarah - Trazodone, for want of a better word, is called an atypical antidepressant. This is because when it was released it was unlike any of the MAOIs or TCAs that were currently available. It is now categorized with Serzone (an SSRI with 5-HT2 blockade), as they have similar structures. Trazodone's antidepressant effects are generally seen at doses of 450-600mg daily (divided). At this dose it causes a lot of sedation and dry mouth, so for years trazodone was a drug looking for an indication. It has found a place in medicine, as a hypnotic (sleeping pill), at low doses (25-100mg). Trazodone is now a hypnotic of choice in the elderly who are sensitive to other hypnotics (benzodiazepines, chloral hydrate, zopiclone, etc). Hope this helps - Cam W.
poster:Cam W.
thread:24887
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000220/msgs/25018.html