Trazadone is classified as what type of medication?

Trazodone is classified as an antidepressant. Specifically, it is known for its role in treating major depressive disorder, and it functions primarily as a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor. By affecting serotonin levels in the brain, trazodone helps improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression.

Additionally, trazodone is frequently used off-label for managing insomnia due to its sedative effects, which is why some might confuse it with anti-anxiety medications. However, its core classification remains as an antidepressant. It does not act as a stimulant or hallucinogen, as those drug classes exhibit entirely different mechanisms and effects on the body. The nature of trazodone’s action on serotonin levels and its therapeutic use in treating depression clarifies its designation as an antidepressant.