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Compare Rozerem vs. Desyrel

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Ramelteon (Rozerem) and trazodone are both used to help with sleep, but they work in different ways and have different primary uses. Ramelteon is a melatonin receptor agonist that mimics the natural hormone melatonin to help you fall asleep. It's specifically approved for treating insomnia and is not habit-forming. Trazodone, on the other hand, is an atypical antidepressant primarily approved for treating major depressive disorder (MDD) but is often used off-label for insomnia. Unlike ramelteon, trazodone affects serotonin levels in the brain and can cause more side effects like sleepiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. Ramelteon is taken once before bedtime, while trazodone can be taken multiple times a day for depression or once at bedtime for sleep. Additionally, trazodone can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly, whereas ramelteon does not. Both medications are available in generic forms.

  • Ramelteon (Rozerem)
    Trazodone
  • Ramelteon (Rozerem)
    Trazodone

  • Summary of Rozerem vs. Desyrel

    Summary for Melatonin receptor agonist
    Prescription only

    Ramelteon (Rozerem) is a sleeping pill used to treat insomnia in adults. It belongs to the drug class known as melatonin receptor agonists and works like melatonin. Ramelteon (Rozerem) is taken by mouth, typically about 30 minutes before bedtime. Unlike some other prescription sleep medications, ramelteon (Rozerem) isn't a controlled substance nor known to be habit-forming. Side effects of ramelteon (Rozerem) aren't common, but can include drowsiness and dizziness.

    Summary for Atypical antidepressant
    Prescription only

    Trazodone is an atypical antidepressant. It's FDA-approved to treat depression in adults, but it isn't a first-choice option. In addition, trazodone is sometimes prescribed off-label for difficulty sleeping (insomnia). This medication is taken by mouth, typically once or a few times a day, depending on your condition. Common side effects of this medication include sleepiness, dry mouth, and dizziness. Brand name Desyrel has been discontinued.

  • Indications of Rozerem vs. Desyrel

    Indications for
    •Insomnia (difficulty falling asleep)
    Indications for
    •Major depressive disorder (MDD)

  • Pros and Cons of Rozerem vs. Desyrel

    Pros and Const for Melatonin receptor agonist
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Not a controlled substance and isn't known to be habit-forming
    •Fewer side effects than some other sleep medications
    •Available as a generic medication
    Cons
    •Shouldn't take with or right after a high-fat meal
    •Can interact with many medications, including fluconazole, rifampin, and fluvoxamine
    •Not recommended for people with sleep apnea or severe liver problems
    Pros and Const for Atypical antidepressant
    Pros
    •Taken by mouth
    •Fewer sexual side effects than some other antidepressants
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    •Starts to work within a week for treating depression
    Cons
    •Not a first-choice medication for depression
    •Can interact with other medications, especially those affecting serotonin levels
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it

  • Common Side Effects of Rozerem vs. Desyrel

    Common Side Effects for
    •Dizziness (4%)
    •Sleepiness (3%)
    •Fatigue (3%)
    •Nausea (3%)
    •Worsening insomnia (3%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Sleepiness (up to 41%)
    •Dry mouth (up to 34%)
    •Dizziness or lightheadedness (up to 28%)
    •Headache (up to 20%)
    •Blurred vision (up to 15%)
    •Nausea or vomiting (up to 13%)

  • Warnings of Rozerem vs. Desyrel

    Common Side Effects for
    •Severe allergic reaction
    •Changes in behavior and unusual thoughts
    •Other causes of insomnia
    •Caution while driving
    •Hormonal changes
    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Life-threatening abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation)
    •Difficulty concentrating and extreme sleepiness
    •Dizziness from lower blood pressure
    •Risk of bleeding
    •Prolonged and painful erection
    •Glaucoma
    •Low blood sodium levels
    •Withdrawal

  • Prices with our coupons for Rozerem vs. Desyrel

    Learn more about Ramelteon
    Learn more about Trazodone

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