Desyrel is the brand name for Trazodone hydrochloride, one of many drugs that is currently used to treat depression.
Function of Desyrel
Desyrel is a member of the tetracyclic antidepressants class of drugs.
Like many antidepressants, it affects serotonin, a brain chemical known
for elevated mood and other functions. Desyrel may also be used for
relieving chronic pain or anxiety in some cases, as determined by your
doctor.
Drug Interactions and Side Effects with Desyrel
Some people may have allergic reactions to the ingredients in Desyrel.
Those experiencing adverse effects from Desyrel should consult their
doctors as soon as possible. Desyrel has a long list of interaction
medications, including but not limited to sodium oxybate, ginkgo
biloba, HIV protease inhibitors, SSRIs, itraconazole and ketoconazole,
so it is very important to let your doctor know every medication you
are taking before she or he proscribes Desyrel for you.
How to Take Desyrel
You should take Desyrel according to your doctor’s instructions. You
should also receive a medication guide with your Desyrel prescription.
Read it and follow the directions carefully. Desyrel will not have an
immediate impact on a patient's condition. It usually takes up to four
weeks for the medication to build adequate levels in your bloodstream
to have any positive effects. You should not feel discouraged if you do
not start to feel better right away. For the same reason, you should
not discontinue Desryel abruptly. Taper off slowly under the guidance
of a physician to give the levels a chance to reduce safely.
Desyrel and Depression
People suffering from major depressive episodes can be at great risk
for suicide or other self-destructive behaviors. Paradoxically, the
time patients may be in the most danger may be when medication starts
to work, as they may begin to get the energy they need to act on their
self-destructive impulses. It is therefore very important that those
suffering from depression be carefully monitored by professional
counselors and loved ones. Any drug treatment should be paired with a
complementary therapy such as psychotherapy or behavioral modification
counseling, especially when medication is first being used.
