Trazodone

Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 3/28/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

The use of trazodone has been shown to cause side effects in some patients.

Common mild side effects of trazodone use include:

• Drowsiness
  
• Dry mouth
  
• Stuffy or runny nose
  
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
  
• Blurred vision
  
• Eye irritation
  
• Nausea or vomiting
  
• Headache
  
• Constipation or diarrhea
  
• Weight loss
  
• Fatigue
  
• Sexual dysfunction (decreased sex drive) in men and women
  
• Erection problems in men
  
  

More severe side effects include:

• Suicidal thoughts or behavior (especially in young adults)
  
• Changes in behavior/ mental clarity
  
• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
  
• Loss of consciousness
  
• Fever
  
• Excessive sweating
  
• Severe dizziness or fainting
  
• Seizures
  
• Priapism (prolonged and painful erection)
  
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
  
• Nosebleeds
  
  

Seek medical attention immediately if you experience any severe symptoms while taking trazodone. If you experience mild side effects that become severe or do not go away after a few days, speak to a healthcare provider right away.

Tell your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with trazodone. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with this drug.

Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
  
• Antidepressants
  
• Antipsychotic medications
  
• Antihypertensive drugs
  
• Certain antibiotics
  
• Antifungal medications
  
• Benzodiazepines
  
• Heart rhythm medications
  
  

You should also mention medical conditions such as:

• History of bipolar disorder or mania
  
• Seizure disorders
  
• Heart disease or recent heart attack
  
• Liver or kidney problems
  
• History of drug or alcohol abuse
  
• Closed-angle glaucoma
  
• Heart arrhythmias
  
  

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using trazodone to assess potential risks and benefits.

Talk to your healthcare provider about the use of this drug with food, beverages, alcohol, and tobacco.

Avoid consuming alcohol while taking trazodone, as it can increase drowsiness and impair cognitive function.

Do not drink grapefruit juice or consume grapefruit while using trazodone.

Inform healthcare providers performing surgeries or procedures that you are taking trazodone, as it may interact with anesthesia and other medications used during these interventions.

Be cautious when driving or operating machinery, as trazodone can cause drowsiness and affect alertness.

Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor treatment progress, adjust dosages if needed, and address any concerns or side effects.

Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions regarding the use of trazodone with food, beverages, and other medications. It's essential to follow their guidance to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and minimize the risk of side effects.

The symptoms of a trazodone overdose include:

• Severe drowsiness or unconsciousness
  
• Irregular heartbeat
  
• Seizures
  
• Difficulty breathing
  
• Vomiting
  
• Blurred vision
  
• Priapism (prolonged and painful erection)
  
  

If you experience any of these symptoms, call the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222. If an individual has collapsed, is having seizures, or is unresponsive, call 9-1-1 immediately.