10 Trazodone Side Effects to Look For

Trazodone is an FDA-approved antidepressant commonly used to treat major depressive disorders. It is also used to treat anxiety and insomnia in some cases. However, trazadone’s effects on serotonin can also lead to some side effects. Here we will review 10 trazodone side effects to look for, how to possibly manage them, and when you need to seek out medical attention.

Understanding Trazodone: Uses and Benefits

Trazodone is classified as an atypical antidepressant and is considered a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is thought to increase levels of serotonin and noradrenaline to improve mood. Trazodone can take 1 to 2 weeks to begin working, and from 4 to 6 weeks to feel the full benefits.

It is mainly used to treat depression, anxiety, or a combination of the two. Some doctors prescribe trazodone off-label for insomnia in older adults. There are several benefits to taking trazodone, including improved mood, and better sleep, and is considered nonaddictive. Unfortunately, like most prescription medications, trazodone has many potential side effects. It is important to note though, that doctors will prescribe medications because their benefits outweigh their risks.

Common Side Effects of Trazodone

There are several trazodone side effects to look out for, especially when first starting the medication. Usually, side effects begin to subside after a few days or a couple of weeks. The following list includes common side effects but not all possible side effects. For more information, you should speak to your doctor or pharmacist about possible side effects and how to manage them if they become concerning or bothersome.

Mild trazodone side effects:

• Dizziness.
• Drowsiness.
• Blurry vision.
• Fatigue.
• Headache.
• Digestive problems, such as diarrhea, constipation, or nausea and vomiting.
• Sleepiness.
• Weight loss.
• Tremors.
• Swelling of the arms, hands, legs, or feet.
• Stuffy nose.

Serious trazodone side effects are not common but call your doctor right away if you develop serious effects or 911 if your symptoms feel life-threatening. Serious side effects include:

• Serotonin syndrome is a condition caused by high levels of serotonin.
• Orthostatic hypotension is a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing which can lead to fainting.
• Low levels of sodium in the blood.
• Changes in blood pressure, either higher or lower than normal.
• QT prolongation is a type of abnormal heart rhythm.
• Risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
• Risk of serious bleeding, such as a nosebleed that takes a long time to stop.
• Severe allergic reaction.

Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea and Diarrhea

Trazodone can cause several gastrointestinal side effects including nausea, vomiting, heartburn, diarrhea, and constipation. These are usually temporary and can improve with time. If they do not improve or go away within a few weeks, it is important to call your doctor as long-term vomiting and diarrhea can lead to dehydration and malnutrition. Constipation can also be dangerous if left untreated. Complications related to constipation can lead to hemorrhoids, anal fissures, fecal impact, and rectal prolapse. It can also cause toxic overload in the body, which makes it more difficult for your liver and kids to eliminate waste.

SSRIs like trazodone can affect the gut’s microbiota negatively, which may be one of the causes of digestive upset. To manage these symptoms, you can take over-the-counter medications such as an anti-diarrheal or anti-nausea medication. Taking a probiotic when on trazodone can also help keep your gut flora in check. Eating a healthy diet made up of plenty of fruits, vegetables, fiber, lean proteins, and healthy fats can also keep your digestive system working optimally. It is also important to stay hydrated through plenty of water and non-sugary electrolyte beverages.

Drowsiness and Fatigue: Managing Daytime Sleepiness

Fatigue and drowsiness are common trazodone side effects, especially during the early weeks of treatment. Feeling sleepy should become less of a problem after a few days as your body adjusts to the medicine. Do not drive, ride a bike, or use tools or machines if you are feeling sleepy or drowsy.

Some ways to help manage daytime sleepiness while on trazodone include:

• Drinking plenty of fluids.
• Getting to bed early so you can get 7 to 9 hours of rest a night.
• Take a brief nap during the day.
• Get some physical exercise, such as walking.
• Take trazodone at bedtime if your doctor approves.

Dizziness and Lightheadedness: Preventing Falls and Injuries

Trazodone’s effects on blood pressure can cause dizziness and lightheadedness, especially when standing up from a lying or sitting position. These side effects should improve over time as well, but talk to your doctor if they continue or get worse.

Some ways to manage dizziness or lightheadedness include:

• Getting up slowly from sitting to standing positions.
• Use handrails, canes, or other sturdy items for support.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Avoid caffeine, tobacco, and alcohol.
• Avoid driving or operating machinery.
• Take trazodone at bedtime if your doctor approves.

Dry Mouth and Throat: Simple Remedies

Many antidepressants cause dry mouth and/or throat. Some simple ways you can combat these trazodone side effects include:

• Sip on water regularly.
• Breathe through your nose, not your mouth.
• Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and caffeinated beverages as they can dehydrate you.
• Chew sugarless gum or suck on sugarless hard candy.
• Talk to your doctor or dentist about over-the-counter or prescription medications for dry mouth.
• Keep good oral hygiene and see your dentist regularly as dry mouth can increase the risk for cavities.

Blurred Vision: When to Seek Medical Help

Temporary blurry vision from trazodone is a common side effect. It is especially noticeable when reading and could be a symptom of dry eye. Over-the-counter eye drops might help provide relief. These are intended for short-term use so talk to your doctor if you need drops frequently or if they do not help with blurry vision. It is important to seek medical help right away if you have eye pain, blind spots, or blurry vision that will not go away.

Mood Swings and Mental Health Concerns

Trazodone side effects also include mental health concerns including anxiety, agitation, difficulty sleeping, irritability, hostility, panic attacks, impulsivity, and movement disorders. Some people can experience worsening depression symptoms while on trazodone including suicidal thoughts. It is important to talk to your doctor immediately if you experience worsening symptoms so they can change your medication or lower the dose.

Serious Side Effects: Allergic Reactions and Heart Issues

If you experience an allergic reaction to trazodone stop taking it immediately and see a doctor or go to the hospital right away. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, face, lips, tongue, or throat, which can cause difficulty swallowing or breathing. Minor allergic reactions include skin itching or rashes.

In very rare cases, trazodone can cause abnormal heart rhythms or arrhythmias. It can prolong the QT interval, the time between heartbeats and heart rest. QT intervals that are too long can cause potentially fatal arrhythmias. Seek medical help if you notice sudden lightheadedness, fainting, or palpitations.

While trazodone does not seem to be addictive, it has been recognized that antidepressant drugs can potentially be abused. While relatively rare, antidepressant drug abuse usually occurs in conjunction with other types of drug or alcohol abuse. Using other medications, drugs, or alcohol while on trazodone can lead to worsening side effects or serious medical conditions.

WhiteSands Treatment offers effective, compassionate drug and alcohol dependence treatments. Our programs include dual diagnosis care, which will address underlying depression, anxiety, or insomnia symptoms. If you or a loved one are struggling with substance abuse, please call us today at (877) 855-3470 to speak to one of our addiction specialists.

If you or a loved one needs help with abuse and/or treatment, please call the WhiteSands Treatment at (877) 855-3470. Our addiction specialists can assess your recovery needs and help you get the addiction treatment that provides the best chance for your long-term recovery.