Trazodone is an antidepressant medication, commonly used to treat symptoms of depression, insomnia, and anxiety. When taking trazodone, it is common for people to experience side effects, such as nausea, weakness, dizziness, and dry mouth.
Typically, these will go away on their own within a few weeks. In some cases, severe or persistent side effects can occur, such as trouble breathing, loss of consciousness, or unusual bleeding, which may require medical assistance.
- Common side effects of trazodone include dry mouth, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, weakness, dizziness, shaking, and sexual dysfunction.
- Serious side effects of trazodone can include extreme changes in heart rate, fever, chest pain, trouble breathing, loss of consciousness, and cognitive impairments.
- Trazodone can also increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, particularly if combined with other serotonergic medications, and can cause sexual side effects.
Common side effects of trazodone
It is common for people to experience side effects when taking trazodone, particularly at the start of treatment or when changing doses. The occurrence of side effects will vary from person to person. Clinical trials show that the most common side effects occur in between 5-20% of those who use this medication. [1]
Typically, side effects will only last a few weeks as the body adjusts to a new medication. In some cases, side effects can last longer and may require treatment. [2]
The most common side effects of trazodone include: [1][2][3]
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Dry mouth
- Blurry vision
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Agitation
- Headache
- Muscle aches and pains
- Nightmares
- Nervousness
- Shaking
- Changes in appetite and weight
- Confusion
- Change in heart rate
If any of these side effects persist for longer than a few weeks, contact your prescribing doctor, as you may need a change in dosage or medication.
Serious trazodone side effects
Sometimes, more serious side effects can occur, which may require professional monitoring or treatment. These effects occur in up to 2% of those who take trazodone and include: [1][2][3]
- Chest pain
- Urinary issues
- Irregular menstruation
- Hallucinations or delusions
- Symptoms of mania or hypomania
- Impaired speech
- Memory problems
- Heart palpitations
- Severe confusion
- Nosebleeds
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Extreme changes in heart rate
- Trouble breathing
- Twitching and numbness in the muscles
- Anxiety
- Seizures
- Fainting
- Loss of consciousness
- Fever and chills
- Eye pain or changes in vision
If any of these side effects occur, contact your prescribing doctor immediately, or in case of an emergency, call 911. It may be necessary to stop or change your medication or you may require treatment.
Severe allergic reactions to trazodone
Some people may be allergic to trazodone. If any of the following symptoms occur, contact a medical professional or 911 immediately: [2]
- Swelling in the face or mouth
- Trouble breathing
- Difficulty swallowing
- Skin becoming pale, gray, or blue
- Severe confusion or drowsiness
- Loss of consciousness
- Rash or blisters
Other side effects
Other side effects can occur with trazodone use and can be severe or even fatal if not managed effectively. This can include serotonin syndrome, sexual side effects, cardiovascular disorders, and extreme changes in mental state. [1]
The occurrence of these effects can vary and may depend on other circumstances, such as other medication use or mental and physical health history.
For more information about specific effects, check the leaflet included with your medication or consult with your doctor.
Serotonin syndrome
Trazodone is a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI) which means that it impacts the levels and activity of the neurotransmitter serotonin. This type of medication can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, particularly if taken alongside other serotonergic medications. [4]
Serotonin syndrome is a serious and sometimes fatal condition, which can cause symptoms such as: [1]
- Agitation
- Hallucinations
- Dizziness
- Fever
- Seizures
- Nausea and vomiting
- Increased heart rate
If these effects occur, contact a doctor immediately.
Sexual side effects
In some cases, trazodone can cause sexual dysfunction.
Sexual side effects of trazodone in males can include: [1][3][5]
- Increase or decrease in sex drive
- Inability to orgasm
- Painful or persistent erections (priapism)
- Inability to get an erection
Sexual side effects of trazodone in females can include: [3]
- Increase or decrease in sex drive
- Issues with becoming aroused or orgasm
Cardiovascular disorders
Mania
Antidepressant medications, such as trazodone, can cause an onset or worsening of mania. This risk is increased in those with a history of manic symptoms or bipolar disorder. [3]
Suicidal ideation
Antidepressants, including trazodone, can cause new or worsening suicidal thoughts. This risk is higher in people under the age of 24 and most often occurs within the first few months of treatment. [1]
People taking trazodone, or family members of those taking the medication, should be made aware of this risk. Any concerning changes in mood or behavior should be reported to a clinician for appropriate monitoring and treatment.
When should you contact your doctor?
Contact your doctor if you experience any unpleasant side effects that do not go away or any severe side effects, such as:
- Extreme changes in mental state
- Rapid or irregular heartbeat
- Chest pain and trouble breathing
- Pain, weakness, or twitching in the muscles
- Persistent vomiting or diarrhea
- Fever and confusion
FAQs
How long do trazodone side effects last?
In most cases, side effects of trazodone will only last a few weeks when treatment is commenced. Side effects that last longer than this might need medical attention.
Do trazodone side effects go away?
Trazodone side effects often go away within a short time, without any medical intervention.
How can you reduce the side effects of trazodone?
To help prevent side effects, doctors will often commence a trazodone prescription on a low dose, to be gradually increased. Your dose might be reduced if side effects occur, allowing your body to adjust to the medication before increasing the dosage again. [3]
Staying hydrated, getting plenty of rest, and eating healthily can help reduce the impact of some side effects. [2]
What are the long-term effects of trazodone?
There is no evidence to suggest that trazodone causes any harmful long-term effects. [6]
Does trazodone cause weight gain?
In a small number of cases, trazodone can cause an increase in appetite which can lead to weight gain. If you are concerned about weight gain while taking trazodone, you may wish to speak to your doctor for advice. [1][6]
What are trazodone’s sexual side effects for males?
For some males, trazodone can cause a loss of libido and ability to orgasm. It can cause long-lasting erections, known as priapism. If an erection lasts for several hours, medical intervention may be required. [3]
What are trazodone’s sexual side effects for females?
For some females, trazodone can cause changes in libido and ability to orgasm. [3]
What are the side effects of trazodone in dogs?
Trazodone is sometimes used to treat anxiety in dogs. Possible side effects of trazodone in dogs can include: [7]
- Sedation
- Vomiting
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in mood and behavior
- Heart palpitations
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