Trazodone (CED0003085)

Trazodone belongs to the piperazines, a subclass of diazinanes within the organic compounds. This exogenous compound has the formula C19H22ClN5O and an average molecular weight of 371.86 g/mol. At room temperature, it exists as a solid. It is used as an antidepressant, sedative, and anxiolytic drug, and it functions biologically as a serotonin uptake inhibitor, H1-receptor antagonist, and adrenergic antagonist. The compound targets several proteins, including the sodium-dependent serotonin transporter (SLC6A4), the sodium-dependent noradrenaline transporter (SLC6A2), the 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 2A (HTR2A), and the alpha-1A adrenergic receptor (ADRA1A). It also acts as a partial agonist of the 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 2C (HTR2C) and targets muscarinic acetylcholine receptors M1, M2, and M4. Trazodone binds at the 5-HT2 receptor, acting as a serotonin antagonist at low doses and a serotonin agonist at high doses. Its antidepressant activity likely results from the inhibition of the serotonin reuptake pump at the presynaptic neuronal membrane, though long-term use may affect postsynaptic neuronal receptor binding sites. The sedative effect is likely caused by modest alpha-adrenergic blocking action. Trazodone is found in antidepressants and has been recorded in drinking water, food preservation, tents or canopies, and various electronic and consumer products, including discharge lamps, electric switches, ash trays, and tobacco smoke filters. The recorded exposure route for this compound is oral.