Does Trazadone Help Cure Severe Insomnia?

Posted on Fri, 13 Oct 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 13 Oct 2017 Answered on

Mon, 13 Nov 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I have severe insomnia and would like to know about taking trazadone for this condition. I am a 78 year old female.

Answered by Dr. Drkaushal85 (51 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Trazodone is advisable only if prescribed by doctor.

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for your question on Healthcare Magic.
I can understand your concern.
Trazodone is basically an anti depressant drug. So it's main effect is on depression.
Additionally, it also has anti anxiety and mild sedative (induces sleep) effects.
So it is to be taken for insomnia only if prescribed by doctor.
Don't take it by own.
So please let me know
1. Is trazodone prescribed by your doctor?
2. Is it available over the counter?
Please reply me answers of above asked questions, so that I can guide you better.
I will be happy to help you further. Wish you good health. Thanks.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj