Last Updated: October 26, 2022

Trazodone is a commonly prescribed antidepressant. Trazodone is also prescribed off-label to treat insomnia and anxiety disorders. Although trazodone can cause mild withdrawal symptoms if taken regularly and quit suddenly, trazodone is not addictive. A number of studies have evaluated the abuse potential associated with trazodone, and have found no potential for abuse. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has similarly identified no potential for abuse associated with trazodone.

It is important to note that trazodone is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, as are many antidepressants. Combining drugs that increase serotonin availability can lead to serotonin syndrome, which is associated with tremors, elevated heart rate, and over-responsive reflexes. Severe serotonin syndrome can be fatal.

Signs of Trazodone Abuse

Although trazodone is not associated with risk of abuse, people who are taking trazodone experience daytime drowsiness, which may be noticeable. People who have taken trazodone regularly may experience withdrawal symptoms when they stop taking it. These symptoms could include:

• Physical Symptoms: Trazodone can cause dizziness, lightheadedness and daytime drowsiness.
• Psychological Symptoms: Trazodone is an antidepressant and anti-anxiety medication, so users often feel more upbeat and positive. People with bipolar disorder who treat depression with trazodone may experience mania/hypomania; trazodone is generally contraindicated in bipolar disorder.

Side Effects of Trazodone Abuse

Trazodone use is associated with side effects. Most people experience only mild effects, but in rare cases more serious side effects can occur with trazodone use.

• Short term Side Effects: The most common side effects of trazodone are drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness, blurred vision and nausea/vomiting.
• Long Term Side Effects: Trazodone is generally not associated with long term side effects. In rare cases, people experience prolonged withdrawal symptoms (tiredness, insomnia) that abate within one to two months.

Trazodone Abuse Statistics

Despite being the 24th most prescribed drug in the US, trazodone is not associated with abuse. Trazodone is not included in the Center for Disease Control’s (CDC) 2018 Annual Surveillance Report of Drug-Related Risks and Outcomes, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) 2017 Drugs of Abuse Resource Guide or 2018 National Drug Threat Assessment, the National Institute on Drug Abuse’s (NIDA) 2018 Monitoring the Future National Survey Results on Drug Use, or the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) 2016 Key Substance Use and Mental Health Indicators in the United States.

Trazodone Overdose

Trazodone overdoses are possible, especially when taken with other drugs. Trazodone overdoses in the presence of alcohol or other drugs can be fatal. There is no specific overdose treatment for trazodone; if you suspect an overdose call 911 or contact your local poison center by calling 1-855-980-4768.

Trazodone overdose symptoms include:

• Drowsiness and vomiting (most common)
• Priapism (prolonged, possibly painful erection)
• Changes in heartbeat
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures

Facing Trazodone Withdrawal and Detox

It is recommended that people who are taking trazodone work with their doctor to determine an appropriate tapering dose that will wean them off slowly. Like other antidepressants, trazodone is associated with discontinuation syndrome in some people. Symptoms of discontinuation syndrome often include anxiety, agitation and sleep disturbances. In rare cases, people have experienced prolonged weariness, nausea/vomiting, trembling, headache and appetite changes that subside within a few weeks.

Overcoming substance use disorders can be challenging. If you or someone you love is struggling with drug use, call The Recovery Village Columbus to speak with one of our experts.

See More: Trazodone Treatment