What Are Trazodone Side Effects?

What Are Trazodone Side Effects?

What Is Trazodone?

Trazodone is a prescription medication that is commonly used to treat depression and anxiety. It works by changing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that can become imbalanced and cause mood disorders. While trazodone is generally well-tolerated and effective at reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, it can also cause a number of side effects. In this article, we'll explore some of the most common trazodone side effects.

Trazodone’s Common Side Effects

• Drowsiness: One of the most common side effects of trazodone is drowsiness, which can range from mild to severe. This side effect is often desired, as it can help with sleep. However, it can also cause difficulty with concentration and coordination, and can increase the risk of falls and accidents. If you experience drowsiness while taking trazodone, you should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
• Dry mouth: Trazodone can cause dry mouth, which can be uncomfortable and may lead to bad breath. To help alleviate dry mouth, you can try drinking plenty of fluids, sucking on sugar-free candy or gum, or using a saliva substitute.
• Headache: Trazodone may cause headaches in some people. If you experience a headache while taking trazodone, you can try taking over-the-counter pain medication or speaking with your doctor about alternative treatment options.
• Nausea: Some people taking trazodone may experience nausea, which can range from mild to severe. To help alleviate nausea, you can try eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding fatty or spicy foods, and drinking fluids to stay hydrated.
• Constipation: Trazodone may cause constipation, which can be uncomfortable and may lead to abdominal pain and bloating. To help alleviate constipation, you can try increasing your intake of fluids and fiber and exercising regularly.
• Blurred vision: Trazodone may cause blurred vision in some people, which can affect your ability to see clearly. If you experience blurred vision while taking trazodone, you should speak with your doctor about the possibility of switching to a different medication.
• Sexual dysfunction: Trazodone can cause sexual dysfunction in both men and women, including decreased libido and difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection. If you experience sexual dysfunction while taking trazodone, you should speak with your doctor about the possibility of switching to a different medication.
• Weight gain: Some people taking trazodone may experience weight gain, which can be a result of the medication's sedative effects and the increased appetite that it may cause. If you're concerned about weight gain while taking trazodone, you should speak with your doctor about strategies to maintain a healthy weight.

It's important to note that these are just some of the most common trazodone side effects, and not everyone who takes the medication will experience them. If you experience any side effects that are severe or persist, you should speak with your doctor. They may be able to adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication.

In summary, trazodone is a commonly prescribed medication that is effective at treating depression and anxiety, but it can also cause a number of side effects, including drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, nausea, constipation, blurred vision, sexual dysfunction, and weight gain. If you experience any of these side effects while taking trazodone, you should speak with your doctor.

CBT-I: A Long-Term Sleep Fix

Many people choose to use medication to help them get to sleep. It’s important to note, though, that Hydroxyzine has not been well studied, and its safety and effectiveness aren’t yet understood.

Cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is a natural, side-effect-free sleep treatment. It involves relearning your sleep habits and addressing issues that are getting in the way of quality sleep. Studies show that CBT-I works as well as or better than sleep medications and that its effects last after the treatment is done.1

Fill out Dawn Health’s questionnaire to get started with CBT-I right from your computer — no in-person visits are necessary. Quality, natural sleep is possible when you embark on a CBT-I treatment journey.