Drug Class: Serotonin Antagonist and Reuptake Inhibitor (SARI) | Form: Oral Tablet | Prescription Status: Prescription Only (Rx) — DRAP Registered
What is Deprel 100mg Tablet? Deprel 100mg contains Trazodone Hydrochloride — an antidepressant belonging to the SARI class that works by balancing serotonin activity in the brain. Unlike many antidepressants, Trazodone has significant sedative properties making it particularly useful when depression is accompanied by anxiety and sleep disturbance. It does not cause the same degree of anticholinergic side effects as older antidepressants, making it better tolerated by many patients. Full antidepressant benefit typically develops gradually over 2 to 4 weeks of consistent use under psychiatric supervision.
What is Deprel 100mg Used For?
- Major depressive disorder — persistent low mood and loss of interest (ڈپریشن)
- Anxiety disorders associated with depression (اضطراب اور گھبراہٹ)
- Insomnia related to depression — difficulty falling or staying asleep (نیند نہ آنا)
- Generalised anxiety disorder — under psychiatrist supervision
- Agitation and behavioural disturbances in depression
How Does it Work? Trazodone works through two complementary actions. It blocks serotonin reuptake — increasing serotonin availability between nerve cells to improve mood and reduce anxiety. Simultaneously it antagonises specific serotonin receptors and histamine receptors — producing its characteristic sedative and sleep-promoting effect. This dual action makes it effective for both daytime depression and nighttime sleep disturbance without the dependence risk associated with sleeping tablets.
Dosage and Administration
⚠️ Never stop suddenly — always reduce dose gradually under doctor supervision. Full antidepressant effect takes 2 to 4 weeks. Take with food to reduce dizziness. Avoid driving when starting treatment.
| Indication | Usual Adult Dose | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Depression / Anxiety | 50 – 100mg | Once to twice daily | Dose adjusted by psychiatrist |
| Depression-related insomnia | 50 – 100mg | Once at bedtime | As prescribed |
| Severe depression | Up to 300mg | Divided doses daily | Hospital or specialist setting only |
Active Ingredients
| Ingredient | Strength |
|---|---|
| Trazodone Hydrochloride | 100mg |
Who Should NOT Take Deprel 100mg?
- Allergy to Trazodone or any component of the tablet
- Currently taking or recently stopped MAO inhibitors — dangerous serotonin syndrome risk
- Recent heart attack or unstable heart condition
- History of prolonged QT interval or arrhythmia
- Severe liver impairment
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding — consult psychiatrist before use
- Children and adolescents under 18 years
- History of mania or bipolar disorder without mood stabiliser cover
Side Effects
Common: Drowsiness and sedation (نیند آنا), dizziness especially on standing up (اٹھتے وقت چکر), dry mouth, headache, nausea, blurred vision, mild weight changes.
Serious — Stop and seek emergency help immediately: Serotonin syndrome — agitation, confusion, rapid heartbeat, high fever, and muscle twitching occurring together (فوری ہسپتال جائیں), prolonged painful erection in men — priapism (فوری طبی مدد ضروری ہے), severe allergic reaction with swelling of face or throat, worsening depression with thoughts of self-harm especially in early treatment (ڈاکٹر کو فوری بتائیں), irregular heartbeat or chest pain, seizures.
Drug Interactions
| Medicine | Interaction |
|---|---|
| MAO inhibitors (Phenelzine, Tranylcypromine) | Life-threatening serotonin syndrome — never combine; allow 14 days gap |
| Other antidepressants / SSRIs | Increased serotonin syndrome risk — use only under specialist supervision |
| Antihypertensives | Trazodone increases blood pressure lowering effect — increased dizziness risk |
| CNS depressants / sedatives | Additive sedation — increased drowsiness and fall risk |
| Digoxin / Phenytoin | Trazodone may increase their blood levels — monitor closely |
| Warfarin | May alter anticoagulant effect — INR monitoring required |
| Alcohol (شراب) | Severely increases sedation and CNS depression — avoid completely |
| Ketoconazole / Ritonavir | Increase Trazodone blood levels — increased side effect risk |
Storage: Store below 25°C in a cool, dry place. Protect from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep out of reach of children (بچوں کی پہنچ سے دور رکھیں). Do not use after expiry date.
FAQs
Q: How long does Deprel 100mg take to improve depression symptoms? Sleep and anxiety usually improve within the first 1 to 2 weeks, but full antidepressant effect on mood typically develops gradually over 2 to 4 weeks of consistent daily use.
Q: Can I stop Deprel suddenly if I feel better? Never stop suddenly — abrupt discontinuation causes withdrawal symptoms including dizziness, nausea, and anxiety. Always follow your doctor's gradual dose reduction plan.
Q: Is Deprel habit-forming like sleeping tablets? Trazodone does not carry the same dependence risk as benzodiazepine sleeping tablets — however it should only be started, adjusted, or stopped under psychiatrist supervision.
⚕️ Medical Disclaimer: This information is for general awareness only and does not replace medical advice. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking any prescription medicine.