Is It Safe To Double The Dosage Of Trazodone For Getting Good Sleep While Suffering From Insomnia?

Posted on Wed, 1 Jan 2014

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

Wed, 1 Jan 2014 Answered on

Fri, 17 Jan 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : I have been takingTrazodone 50mg as prescribed by my g.p. for its off-label use for insomnia. I have been finding it effective to let me sleep, yet still wake up about 5. I was thinking about taking 2 tonight and wondered about if anyone takes a 100 mg dose. Thankyou for your consideration. FYI - I am in a general state of anxiety as my husband of thirty years is leaving me. I have lost a lot of weight and have had insomnia since April. I jut thought here I am alone on NYE and I would really like to have good sleep,so I thought about doubling the doe. I don't take any other sedative.

Answered by Dr. T Shobha Deepak (6 hours later)

Brief Answer: Not advisable to double the dosage Detailed Answer: Namasthe Welcome to Healthcare-Magic Greetings of the day It's not advisable to double the dosage . Trazodone is tricyclic antidepressants, it' is the sedative action of it which is inducing sleep in you. So doubling the dose won't help help to that level in helping you in insomnia. I do understand the stress and anxiety of spouse separation. I would suggest you the following 1. Consult a qualified Psychiatrist for complete reassessment and revaluation of your symptoms 2. Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol intake. 3. Meditation and yoga will help 4. Keep the problem aside for some time when you are not able to carry it. It will definitely help. I hope it helped In case you require any further assistance, will be glad to assist you. Take care Best Regards Dr T Shobha MBBS MD

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Shanthi.E