Generic Desyrel

Desyrel, which is generically prescribed as trazodone, is part of the family of medications known as antidepressants. It is commonly used to treat the symptoms associated with depression such as hopelessness, sadness, worthlessness, guilt, lack of interest in daily activities, insomnia, changes in appetite, sleeping excessively, and thoughts of self harm or suicide.

It is not uncommon for individuals who start an antidepressant to experience a worsening of symptoms. If symptoms worsen, or the patient experiences anxiety attacks, hostility, irritability, new symptoms of depression, or worsening depression, a lesser dose or another medication may be required. This is especially true in patients under the age of 18.

Desyrel is not appropriate for everyone and a medical history evaluation is necessary prior to prescribing Desyrel. Patients with a medical history which includes heart disease, prolonged erections, heart attacks, angina, arrhythmia, or high blood pressure may not be able to take Desyrel or may require cautious monitoring while undergoing drug therapy with this medication, depending on the condition and the severity of the condition.

Desyrel has been given a category C pregnancy risk by the American Food and Drug Administration. It has yet to be determined to what extent this medication may harm or cause birth defects in an unborn baby. Desyrel does pass through the mother’s breast milk and is likely to affect a nursing infant. The prescribing physician should find other alternatives to Desyrel for women who are pregnant, nursing, or may become pregnant.

There is a risk of side effects associated with Desyrel, some of which might be severe. Severe side effects and allergic reactions require immediate emergency medical attention. An allergic reaction is likely to present with symptoms which include facial swelling, including swelling of the lips, tongue, mouth, or the throat, difficulty breathing, and hives. Other serious side effects may include symptoms such as an erection that last longer than 4 hours or is particularly painful or inappropriate, angina, or irregular heart rate.

Less serious side effects typically do not require emergency medical care of any kind, but should still be reported to the prescribing physician. The prescribing physician may be able to alleviate some side effects by reducing the dose of Desyrel. Less serious side effects are likely to include headaches, drowsiness, dizziness, insomnia, vivid dreams, dry mouth, upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, tremors, or blurry vision.

There is a risk of drug interactions that may occur while undergoing drug therapy with Desyrel. To avoid these interactions, the prescribing physician should thoroughly assess the patient’s medical history. Medications which are known to interact with Desyrel include digoxin, phenytoin, MAO inhibitors, trazodone, and blood thinners such as Warfarin. Patients should always check with the prescribing physician before taking any type of new medications, whether prescription or over the counter, including herbal supplements and vitamins. Patients should avoid alcohol while taking Desyrel.

Desyrel should be taken exactly as it has been prescribed to avoid the potential for an overdose. If the patient misses a dose, the dose should either be taken as soon as it is remembered or skipped altogether if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. Taking too much of this medication or taking a double dose may lead to an overdose, which would require emergency medical attention. An overdose will likely present with symptoms which include nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, seizures, irregular heart rate, long and painful erection, difficulty breathing, coma, or death.