Trazodone Uses & Risks
Trazodone is a type of antidepressant used to treat depression and sometimes insomnia. Keep reading to learn more about trazodone, the risks of trazodone misuse, and how to get help for drug addiction at our rehab near Dallas.
What Is Trazodone?
Trazodone is a triazolopyridine derivative drug primarily indicated for use in the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD).1
Trazodone’s chemical structure is unrelated to many other known antidepressant agents—including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants.2,3
Like many antidepressants, the precise mechanism of action isn’t well understood, though it is thought to be a function of potentiated serotonin signaling in the brain.2,3
Now available as a generic, trazodone was once marketed under brand names including Oleptro and Desyrel.3
The drug has significant sedating effects. Though it remains an off-label use, nowadays trazodone is more commonly prescribed to manage insomnia, as well as sleep problems related to various mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety disorders.3
Trazodone Misuse
Though trazodone is not widely misused, there is case report evidence that some individuals may intentionally misuse their antidepressants.4
Misuse of trazodone can result in potentially severe trazodone side effects, such as:1
- Over-sedation.
- Blood pressure fluctuations.
- Dizziness.
- Vomiting.
- Priapism.
- Seizures.
- Serotonin syndrome.
- Heart rhythm disturbances.
- Respiratory arrest.
Using trazodone with CNS depressants like alcohol, benzodiazepines, or barbiturates may increase the risk of trazodone overdose.1
Though the abuse liability for an antidepressant like trazodone is low, there is still potential for an individual to develop some physical dependence to the medication, even when taken as prescribed for a consistent period of time.
Because of the potential for physiological dependence, people are commonly guided in a tapering off of the medication at the point that a decision is made to stop using it. This is done in the hope of minimizing a potentially uncomfortable period of withdrawal or discontinuation syndrome.1
What Is Antidepressant Discontinuation Syndrome?
Antidepressant discontinuation syndrome is an adverse reaction that can occur as a result of suddenly stopping an antidepressant.1,3,5
Without gradually reducing the dose of a serotonergic antidepressant over time, a person might develop symptoms such as:1,3,5
- Trouble sleeping (e.g., insomnia, nightmares).
- Restlessness / akathisia.
- Flu-like symptoms.
- Headache.
- Sweating.
- Anxiety.
- Agitation
- Dizziness / vertigo / trouble with balance.
- Nausea and vomiting.
- Decreased appetite.
- Paresthesia or electric shock sensations.
- Lethargy.
- Dysphoria.
- Labile mood.
Experiencing some discontinuation symptoms does not mean that a person was addicted to the medication. A person should talk with a healthcare provider before stopping or changing any medications, including trazodone.
Get Treatment for Drug Addiction at Greenhouse
Though addiction or compulsive use with trazodone is uncommon, misuse may occur. If you are concerned about problematic use or think you may be struggling with an addiction, professional treatment can help.
At Greenhouse Treatment Center, we offer different levels of addiction treatment designed to meet your individual needs, including:
Our admissions navigators are available around the clock to take your call and answer any questions you may have about our programs, paying for rehab, using insurance to pay for rehab, or the rehab admissions process.
Take the first step toward recovery by calling our inpatient rehab near Dallas today at . Whether your needs involve compulsive misuse of a prescription medication or any other substance, we’re here to support you every step of the way.