The primary trade name for trazodone is Desyrel [1]. Other brand names under which trazodone is sold include Oleptro and various generic formulations [1, 2].
What is Trazodone Used For?
Trazodone is primarily prescribed to treat major depressive disorder [3]. It is also frequently used off-label to manage insomnia, particularly when the insomnia is associated with depression [4]. Its effects on sleep are thought to be related to its action on serotonin receptors [4].
How Does Trazodone Work?
Trazodone is classified as a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI) [3]. It works by affecting neurotransmitters in the brain, particularly serotonin. By blocking certain serotonin receptors and inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, trazodone can help to improve mood and promote sleep [3, 4].
When Does Trazodone Patent Expiration Occur?
The original patents for trazodone have long since expired, allowing for the widespread availability of generic versions [5]. Information on specific patent timelines for branded versions like Desyrel can be found on resources such as DrugPatentWatch.com [5].
Who Manufactures Trazodone?
Trazodone is manufactured by multiple pharmaceutical companies, both for branded and generic versions. Companies that produce generic trazodone include Teva Pharmaceuticals, Accord Healthcare, and Mylan, among others [1, 2].
What Are the Side Effects of Trazodone?
Common side effects associated with trazodone include drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, blurred vision, and constipation [3]. Less common but more serious side effects can include priapism (a prolonged erection), irregular heartbeat, and suicidal thoughts, especially in younger patients [3, 6].
How Does Trazodone Compare to Other Sleep Medications?
Unlike some other sleep medications that primarily target GABA receptors, trazodone's mechanism involving serotonin offers a different approach to managing insomnia [4]. For depression, trazodone is considered an atypical antidepressant and may be chosen when other antidepressants have not been effective or when insomnia is a prominent symptom [3, 4].
Sources
1. https://www.drugs.com/imprints/desyrel-5157.html
2. https://www.drugs.com/mtm/trazodone.html
3. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a681034.html
4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3975548/
5. https://drugpatentwatch.com/
6. https://www.rxlist.com/trazodone-side-effects-drug-center.htm