Trazodone Side Effects

Trazodone is a medication that is often prescribed to treat major depression but can also be given to treat other conditions. It can often be used as part of an alcohol or substance abuse treatment program to help clients who are experiencing difficulties sleeping. Especially for those who are concerned about addiction, questions such as ‘what is trazodone?’ and ‘is it addictive?’ may be at the forefront. Learning more about medicines that may be used in the context of a substance abuse treatment program can be reassuring and empowering. Call Greater Boston Addiction Centers at 877.920.6583 to learn more.

What Is Trazodone?

Trazodone is a type of antidepressant medication. Most frequently, it is used to treat major depressive disorder, but it can also be prescribed for anxiety or sleep problems. Trazodone is often given in low doses to help treat insomnia since it does not have the same strong sedative effects or potential for abuse as other sedative drugs.

What Are the Side Effects of Trazodone?

Just like any other prescription drug, people who take trazodone may experience some side effects. These range from mild to severe, and not every person who takes the drug will experience any or all of the side effects. Some of the side effects that might be experienced when taking trazodone are:

• Dry mouth
• Bad taste in the mouth
• Muscle or joint pain
• Memory issues
• Tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
• Constipation
• Sweating
• Headaches
• Fainting or dizziness

Is Trazodone Safe to Use?

Generally, when used under the supervision of a doctor, trazodone is safe to use. However, it should be carefully supervised because of some rare but possibly serious side effects. When it comes to abuse and addiction, trazodone does not have the high potential for abuse and addiction of many other drugs used to treat sleep problems. That does not mean, though, that there is zero risk – just that it is a safer bet than some others. Most people do not abuse trazodone and do not have difficulty stopping the drug when it is no longer needed.

What Is the Role of Trazodone in Substance Abuse and Alcohol Treatment?

Often, during the course of treatment for addiction, clients will be given medications that can help them to navigate the withdrawal process more comfortably or to deal with symptoms and side effects of withdrawal. Trazodone can be used in this context since many people who go through withdrawal report difficulty sleeping. It can also sometimes be helpful when treating clients who are experiencing benzodiazepine withdrawal. Many people who struggle with using benzos have anxiety, and quitting benzos can sometimes make anxiety worse. Therefore, non-benzo medications like trazodone can be helpful as clients transition away from unhealthy benzo use.

Do People Ever Need Treatment for Trazodone Addiction?

Although the risk of abuse and addiction from using trazodone is low, it is still possible. Clients who are abusing or having trouble quitting any prescription medication may need treatment to help them. However, when using the medication under a doctor’s care and taking it as directed, the medication is rarely problematic.

Greater Boston Recovery Centers Can Help with Substance Abuse and Alcohol Addiction Treatment

At our treatment centers, we offer a range of programming that can help clients get the support they need to recover from substance abuse or alcohol addiction. Each client receives an individualized treatment plan that is designed to work with their specific needs so that they can maintain their recovery and get back to the activities they enjoy. If you or someone you care about has been struggling with addiction, reach out to our caring staff today at 877.920.6583 or via our online form and learn how we can help.