| Is trazodone listed on the PBS? |
As of the most recent public information (2023‑2024), trazodone is not listed on the Australian PBS for any indication. This means that, unlike many other antidepressants and sleep‑aid medicines, it does not receive a subsidy from the government. Patients pay the full retail price (or a private health insurance co‑pay, if they have coverage). |
| Why is it not PBS‑subsidised? |
PBS listings are determined by the Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) and the Department of Health after reviewing clinical evidence, cost‑effectiveness and budget impact. Trazodone has historically been used mainly as an off‑label hypnotic (for insomnia) or an antidepressant in the private market, and the evidence base for a PBS listing has not yet been strong enough to support a subsidy. |
| How can you obtain trazodone in Australia? |
1. See a GP or a qualified prescriber – they’ll decide whether trazodone is appropriate for you.
2. Get a prescription – the prescriber will write a prescription for the dosage and duration you need.
3. Buy it at a pharmacy – because it’s not PBS‑funded, the full cost is paid at the pharmacy. Some pharmacies offer bulk‑pack savings, and private health insurance may cover part of the cost if you have a relevant policy. |
| Typical uses in Australia |
• Depression (sometimes as an add‑on to other antidepressants)
• Anxiety disorders (off‑label)
• Chronic insomnia (often at lower doses than for depression) |
| Common dosages |
• Depression: 25 mg once daily → titrate up to 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, 200 mg (maximum 300 mg/day).
• Insomnia: 25–50 mg once nightly before bed (often the lowest dose).
• Anxiety: similar to depression dosing, but usually at the lower end. |
| Key safety points |
• Slow titration – especially when starting or increasing doses to reduce nausea, dizziness or orthostatic hypotension.
• Avoid alcohol – can worsen sedation and dizziness.
• Watch for “dream‑like” sleep – many patients report vivid dreams or nightmares.
• Cardiac monitoring – in people with a history of QT prolongation, consider an ECG before starting or if you’re on other QT‑prolonging drugs.
• Withdrawal – taper slowly if you plan to stop, to avoid rebound insomnia or anxiety. |
| Alternatives that are PBS‑funded |
• SSRIs (e.g., sertraline, fluoxetine) – for depression and anxiety.
• SNRIs (e.g., venlafaxine).
• Low‑dose trazodone‑like hypnotics (e.g., doxepin 3 mg) – for insomnia (do note doxepin is listed on the PBS for insomnia).
• Buspirone – for anxiety (PBS‑funded). |
| Getting PBS‑information |
• Check the Australian Government Department of Health PBS website: https://www.pbs.gov.au – you can search for “trazodone” to confirm its status.
• Contact your pharmacist – they can provide the most up‑to‑date information on availability and any private‑market discounts. |