Trazodone is used to treat depression. It is thought to work by increasing the activity of serotonin in the brain. Trazodone is an antidepressant. This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription. This product is available in the following dosage forms: Medical uses Depression The primary use of trazodone is the treatment of unipolar major depression with or without anxiety. [4] Data from open and double-blind trials suggest that the antidepressant efficacy of trazodone is comparable to that of amitriptyline, doxepin, and mianserin. Desyrel (trazodone) is a SARI antidepressant approved to treat depression and commonly prescribed for insomnia and anxiety. Trazodone works by increasing serotonin activity in the brain and blocking receptors that promote wakefulness. Trazodone is used to treat major depressive disorder. It may help to improve your mood, appetite, and energy level as well as decrease anxiety and insomnia related to depression. This article describes the dosage of trazodone, its strengths, and how to take it. For a detailed overview of this drug, check out this in-depth trazodone article. What Is Trazodone? Trazodone is a prescription medication originally developed to treat depression. Today, it's often used off-label as a sleep aid, especially for people who struggle with insomnia linked to anxiety or mood disorders. Why is this medication prescribed? Trazodone is used to treat depression. Trazodone is in a class of medications called serotonin modulators. It works by increasing the amount of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain that helps maintain mental balance. Overview: Trazodone is used to treat depression. It works by increasing the amount of serotonin, a natural chemical in the brain. Common side effects may include swelling, blurred vision. Trazodone is an antidepressant that is sometimes prescribed as a sleep aid. It is not addictive and may offer additional benefits over other sleep aids for certain conditions, such as sleep apnea. Detailed Trazodone dosage information for adults. Includes dosages for Depression; plus renal, liver and dialysis adjustments.