Sleepless Without Serzone

Reader’s Question

I was taking 200mg of Serzone at bedtime for 12 years. My doctors have recently taken me off and will no longer prescribe. I have tried many antidepressants and this was the only medication that seemed to agree with me, my main problems being anxiety and insomnia. Please recommend a medication that is similiar in content.

Sincerely,
– Sleepless

Our Consulting Clinical Psychologist’s Reply

Hi, Sleepless… Serzone was removed from the market several years ago due to issues with liver failure. Serzone is an SNRI (Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor) antidepressant. From what I understand, its closest cousin is probably Trazodone/Desyrel (in the US). I would consult with your physician to see if a trial period on that medication would be helpful. As most antidepressants are prescribed by nonpsychiatric physicians, if your physician isn’t a psychiatrist, you might consider a psychiatric consultation as well.

Psychiatrists are best trained in the use of antidepressants and often use two medications in combination to obtain a specific treatment outcome. It is not uncommon, for example, to use a low dose of Trazodone as a sleep aid as well as another antidepressant.

Keep in mind that it may take a few mediation trials to determine the medication program best suited for your symptoms.