If you or someone close to you has ever struggled with anxiety, depression, or sleep issues; you may have heard the name of the medication Trazodone.
Because there are so many different medications for treating these problems it is important to get familiar with the medication you are taking or considering.
Many medications that can help with anxiety or sleep issues can be addictive and cause dependence. Because of this, it is normal if you are worried about the effects of a certain medication. Being educated in the right way can always help with maximizing the benefits of a medication while minimizing its risks.
Trazodone is one of these medications that has been used for many years. It was used to treat depression and eventually, because of its effects, it got used for anxiety and sleep issues.
It has unique properties that make it useful for use in all these conditions.
How Does Trazodone Work?
Trazodone affects the serotonin in the brain by stopping its reuptake which decreases its amount, leading to increased serotonin in the brain. Through this, it can help with depression, & anxiety.
At the same time, it affects histamine leading to making you feel sleepy just like when you take antihistamine medications for allergy. This is what makes it useful in patients dealing with sleep problems.
Uses of Trazodone
As we mentioned before it is used in different conditions. In each of them, it helps in its own unique way. Trazadone is primarily used for depression. It helps with symptoms of depression, making daily life activities less exhausting for these people. While it helps with depression, it can also affect anxiety symptoms that come with it or separately. However, these days the main use of Trazodone is for sleep disorders due to its lower risk with good effectiveness.
Potential Side Effects of Trazodone
It’s important to be aware of Trazodone’s potential side effects. Being familiar with these risks can help patients make informed decisions about their treatment plans.
Common Side Effects
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Headaches
- Nausea
These side effects are mostly mild and tend to go away as the body gets used to the medication.
Serious Side Effects
Trazodone can cause more severe side effects, such as:
- Vision changes
- Irregular heartbeat
- Fainting
- Severe dizziness
- Priapism (a prolonged and painful erection)
These are dangerous side effects that need immediate medical attention.
Trazodone and Substance Abuse
Trazodone is mostly safe when it is used in the right way. However, all medications can be dangerous when misused. This is more common with medications that cause sedation alongside the other good feelings they can cause.
It is rare to have any physical dependence on Trazodone, however, patients can get mentally dependent on it more often. This can cause them not to be able to fall asleep or manage anxiety/depression symptoms without the presence of the drug. Simply they start thinking that the only thing that can help them is grabbing their bottle and taking the medication.
Combining Trazodone with Other Substances
Mixing Trazodone with alcohol or other depressants can increase its sedative effects. It increases the risk of dangerous side effects like extreme drowsiness, slowed breathing, and impaired motor functions. This can be harmful or even result in an overdose.
Trazodone in Substance Abuse Treatment
In addiction recovery, Trazodone may be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for patients with co-occurring mental health disorders. It can help with symptoms of depression and anxiety, making it easier for patients to focus on their recovery.
Is Trazodone Right for You?
Determining whether Trazodone is the right medication for you depends on various factors. Factors can include your medical history, mental health condition, and potential risk of substance abuse. If you have a history of addiction or are currently in recovery, it’s important to discuss these aspects with your healthcare provider to decide if Trazodone is your best option.
Get Started Today
If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health issues or substance abuse, seeking professional help is the first step towards recovery. At 12 South Recovery, we offer comprehensive treatment plans tailored to your needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your journey.
