Trazodone is a medication primarily prescribed to manage major depressive disorder. It functions as a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI), influencing brain chemicals to help regulate mood and alleviate symptoms of depression. Beyond its primary use for depression, trazodone is also frequently prescribed off-label to address insomnia due to its sedating properties.
Understanding Controlled Substances
A controlled substance refers to a drug or chemical whose manufacture, possession, and use are regulated by a government. This regulation stems from the potential for abuse and addiction associated with these substances. In the United States, the federal framework for such regulation is established by the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). This act categorizes drugs into five classifications, known as “schedules,” based on their medical use, potential for abuse, and the likelihood of causing dependence.
The schedules range from Schedule I to Schedule V. Schedule I substances have no currently accepted medical use and a high potential for abuse, while Schedule V substances have the lowest potential for abuse and accepted medical uses. The classification into these schedules determines the level of restriction on a substance’s production, distribution, and possession. The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is responsible for maintaining this scheduling system and can initiate proceedings to add, delete, or change the schedule of a drug.
Trazodone’s Classification
Trazodone is not classified as a controlled substance under federal law, nor is it typically controlled under state laws. The FDA does not classify trazodone as controlled due to studies showing a low likelihood of abuse. This reflects its low potential for abuse and dependence.
Despite its psychoactive effects and its ability to alter brain chemicals, trazodone’s pharmacological profile does not meet the criteria for scheduling. Trazodone is not considered a primary drug of abuse and does not typically induce intense cravings associated with addictive substances. Clinical trials show a lack of drug-seeking behavior. Despite limited research on its abuse potential, particularly with off-label uses like insomnia, it is broadly considered to have a low risk of misuse.
Navigating Trazodone Prescriptions
Even though trazodone is not a controlled substance, it remains a prescription-only medication. This means that a licensed healthcare provider must authorize its use, and it cannot be obtained over-the-counter. Patients require a doctor’s prescription to acquire the medication, and refills are determined by the prescriber rather than being subject to the stricter regulations governing controlled substances.
Patients should take trazodone exactly as prescribed. This includes adhering to the specified dosage and frequency, often taken after a meal or light snack to reduce side effects. Patients should not adjust their dosage or discontinue the medication abruptly without consulting their healthcare provider, as sudden cessation can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Proper storage is important, and sharing prescribed medication is not advised.