Trazodone in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) Treatment
Drugs For Sleep in ME/CFS
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Trazodone (Desyrel) - is an antidepressant drug that also has anxiety relieving and
hypnotic (ie sleep inducing effects). A serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor, Trazodone, works
by 'anatagonizing' serotonin receptors thus reducing serotonin (also called the 'feel-good chemical'
uptake leaving it more available in the nervous system. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter
that regulates mood, sleep, appetite, muscle contraction and is most abundant in the
gut and brain.
Trazodone Studies in Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - None
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Physicians ReportSix CFS physicians have recommended Trazodone. Dr. Lapp reports that he has ‘excellent luck’ with Trazodone
and Dr. Bell states that "Trazodone is one of my most favorite medications
for sleep. "Trazodone doesn’t cause dry mouth or stimulate the appetite (no
weight gain) and puts you into deep stage three or four sleep. Since it works
best in the early morning hours it is a good medication for those who wake early
and can’t get back to sleep. It also helps with anxiety. Men may find that it
may help with erections. Dr. Bell states it should be taken ½ hour to two
hours before sleep.
Dosage Dr. Bell starts at 25 mg. (taken ½-2 hours before sleep)
and works his way up (50-150mg.). Dr. Lapp recommends 50 mg. Dr. Bell states it
should be taken approximately one-half hour to two hours prior to going to bed.