What is Desyrel used for?
Desyrel treats depression and anxiety related conditions. The active ingredient, trazodone, maintains the correct levels of serotonin in the brain. Desyrel is also used for other conditions not mentioned in this guide.

Dose
Desyrel must be used as prescribed. Never make changes to the dosage without consulting with a doctor. Desyrel should be taken at the same time every day after a meal.

The beneficial effects of Desyrel may only be noticed in the first four weeks of treatment. The full course of treatment must be completed. Do not stop taking this medication even if your condition improves.

Missed Dose
A missed dose can be taken as long as a suitable length of time passes before the time of the next dose. Do not take a double dose. If more than one dose is missed, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Important information about this medication
Desyrel should not be taken by people who are allergic to trazodone.

Your doctor will need to know if you suffer with any heart condition such as irregular heart rate, or if you have suffered a heart attack, if you have suicidal tendencies, if you have a history of depression, or if you drink alcohol. If you are scheduled to have any type of surgical procedure, inform your doctor before using Desyrel.

Prior to taking Desyrel, you must provide your doctor with details of your medical history. This must include medications that you have used, or are using, as well as any dietary supplements such as vitamins and herbal medications.

Women who become pregnant while using Desyrel should immediately inform their doctor. The active ingredient in Desyrel is secreted into breast milk which means that nursing mothers should use this medication with extreme caution, and only after discussing potential risks with a doctor.

When first using Desyrel, avoid driving or doing any dangerous activity to ensure that you do not experience any bad reactions to this medication. Avoid drinking alcohol while using Desyrel as it may increase the side-effects of dizziness and drowsiness.

Children and adolescents may be prone to suicidal thoughts while taking Desyrel. Parents or care-givers should report any changes in mood or behavior to a doctor.

What are the side-effects of this medication?
Symptoms of an allergic reaction include breathing problems, swelling (tongue, throat, face or lips), or hives. If any of these symptoms appear, call for medical assistance.

Symptoms of serious side-effects include chest pain, bloody urine, hallucinations, fainting, irregular heart rate, dizziness (especially after lying down or sitting), painful or prolonged erections, shortness of breath, convulsions, vomiting, or stroke.

Less serious side-effects that usually occur in the early stages of treatment with this medication are tremors, blurred vision, lack of appetite, constipation, drowsiness, dizziness, a general feeling of discomfort, dry mouth, lack of co-ordination, muscle aches and pains, light-headedness, nervousness, insomnia, nausea, blocked nose, stomach pain, fatigue, or edema.

This medication may cause other side-effects not mentioned above. Any uncomfortable symptoms that persist should be reported to your doctor.

If overdose is suspected
Symptoms of overdose may include low blood pressure, losing consciousness, convulsions, change in heart rate (slow, fast, or irregular), dizziness, drowsiness, weakness, or vomiting.

Storage instructions
Desyrel should be stored in a dry, cool place – away from moisture or direct sunlight.