Let's take a minute to talk about your medication.  

This is trazodone, and you should take it as prescribed by your doctor. It's best to take it with food to reduce possible dizziness.  

It may take several weeks, but trazodone treats depression. It also helps many people sleep better.  

At first, side effects can occur, like mild headache, nausea, dry mouth or slightly blurry vision. You may also feel drowsy or uncoordinated, so don't do activities that require you to be alert, like driving, until you know how it affects you. These are normal and should go away. But, if these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking trazodone, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. But, don't suddenly stop taking it unless your doctor says it's okay.  

A rare but serious side effect is a painful or long-lasting erection, and men should get medical help right away if this occurs. 

You should know that if thoughts of suicide, or worsening mood or behavior ever occur, especially in children or young adults, this could be a side effect of this type of medicine and you should notify your doctor right away.  

To reduce the risk of side effects and interactions, you should avoid alcohol, and tell your doctor and pharmacist before taking any new medications.  

For best results, read the medication guide for more information, and consider asking a friend or family member to help determine how it is working for you.