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Trazodone as Augmentation Therapy for Depression

How low-dose trazodone is sometimes added to another antidepressant, and what this approach aims to accomplish.

Editorially reviewed
Key points
  • Adds to, rather than replaces, an existing antidepressant
  • Commonly used to counter SSRI/SNRI-related sleep disruption
  • Combines two serotonergic medications — requires prescriber oversight

"Augmentation" means adding a second medication to boost or complement an existing treatment rather than replacing it. A common pattern is adding low-dose trazodone at bedtime to a daytime SSRI or SNRI — both to help with sleep disruption the primary antidepressant may cause, and sometimes for an additional antidepressant effect.

This combination is well established in clinical practice, but it does combine two serotonergic medications, so it should only be done under a prescriber's direction, with awareness of serotonin syndrome symptoms as a precaution.

References

  1. Trazodone: MedlinePlus Drug Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus). View source (opens in a new tab) Accessed August 8, 2026
  2. Trazodone Hydrochloride Tablets — FDA Prescribing Information. DailyMed / U.S. Food & Drug Administration. View source (opens in a new tab) Accessed August 8, 2026
Not medical advice. This article is educational and does not replace guidance from your prescriber or pharmacist. If you think you're having a serious reaction, see our emergency resources page.

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