Key takeaways
Trazodone and Valium (diazepam) are both prescription medications, but they belong to different classes and treat different conditions. Trazodone is an atypical antidepressant, specifically a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI), primarily used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) and sometimes prescribed off-label for insomnia. In contrast, Valium is a benzodiazepine used to treat anxiety disorders, alcohol withdrawal symptoms, muscle spasms, and seizures. Trazodone is typically taken once or a few times a day, whereas Valium is usually taken 2 to 4 times daily. Common side effects of trazodone include sleepiness, dry mouth, and dizziness, while Valium can cause sleepiness, dizziness, and muscle weakness. Both medications can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly, but only Valium is a controlled substance due to its potential for misuse and dependence.
