Is trazodone a tranquilizer??

It can be: Actually, it's in the medication class known as Tetracyclic Antidepressants so technically speaking it was not initially approved or marketed for tranquilization purposes, however, over the years it's come to be known for its sedative effects which is why docs seem to like it for people with insomnia.I don't gravitate much to it because of its side effect profile which most of patients complain.

Depression/insomnia: Desyrel/trazodone is an older medication indicated by the FDA for the treatment of depression & is effective for this purpose at the appropriate doses. Because of its tendency to cause sedation, many prescribers use this medication these days for short-term insomnia. The sedation could calm some patients but it is not a tranquilizer in the truest sense. Good luck!

Trazodone: It is an Antidepressant with sedating & strong Anticholinergic properties.