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What is the usual starting dose of trazodone?

Short answer: For depression, the FDA label describes an initial dose of 150 mg/day in divided doses. For off-label insomnia use, doses are typically much lower, often in the 25–100 mg range at bedtime.

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According to trazodone's FDA prescribing information, the labeled starting dose for major depressive disorder is 150 mg/day in divided doses, increased by 50 mg/day every 3 to 4 days as needed, up to 400 mg/day for most outpatients. When used off-label for sleep, prescribers typically use much lower doses — commonly 25 to 100 mg at bedtime — since the sedating effect appears well below the antidepressant dose range. Your specific dose depends entirely on why it was prescribed and your individual response.

Not medical advice. This answer is general and educational. Your prescriber knows your full history and can give guidance specific to you.

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