Q1: What is the typical trazodone dosage for sleep, and does it increase over time?
A1: Prescribers typically start sleep treatment at 25 mg to 50 mg taken roughly 30 minutes before bed, with maximum sedative doses rarely exceeding 100 mg. Unlike benzodiazepines, trazodone does not typically produce rapid pharmacological tolerance. Most patients do not need continuously escalating doses to fall asleep.
Q2: How long does trazodone withdrawal or rebound insomnia typically last?
A2: When stopped abruptly, acute rebound insomnia and physical restlessness usually peak within 48 to 72 hours and can persist for one to two weeks. Gradual dosage reductions over two to four weeks significantly dampen these effects, giving native circadian rhythms time to adapt.
Q3: Can I drink alcohol while taking trazodone for sleep?
A3: No. Combining trazodone with alcohol severely intensifies central nervous system depression. The mixture dangerously elevates the risk of severe hypotension, respiratory depression, extreme daytime grogginess, and uncoordinated falls.
