Trazodone withdrawal, while relatively rare, can occur, especially in those who misuse the drug or abruptly stop taking it. Symptoms can include anxiety, agitation, and sleep disturbances. A medically supervised tapering program is recommended for safe discontinuation.
Trazodone is a prescription medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat major depressive disorder.[1] Like most antidepressants, trazodone can cause physical dependence. Quit abruptly, and you can experience symptoms like anxiety and agitation.[1]
A trazodone taper program can help you quit using the drug safely and comfortably. If you’ve mixed this antidepressant with other drugs (like opioids), you may need a detox program instead.
Trazodone is an antidepressant medication that is often prescribed to treat depression, It works by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain, Trazodone is sometimes prescribed off-label to treat insomnia as well,
Many people wonder if they can stop taking trazodone cold turkey Quitting any medication abruptly carries risks, and trazodone is no exception. Stopping trazodone suddenly may lead to withdrawal side effects
To safely discontinue trazodone, it is important to talk to your doctor and taper off the medication gradually. This article provides an overview of trazodone, withdrawal symptoms, and how to properly wean off this drug.
What is Trazodone?
Trazodone belongs to a class of antidepressants known as serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitors (SARIs). It works by blocking serotonin receptors and preventing the reabsorption of serotonin, leaving more free serotonin available in the brain.
In addition to treating major depressive disorder, trazodone may be prescribed off-label for:
- Insomnia
- Anxiety disorders
- Schizophrenia
- Chronic pain
- Alcohol withdrawal
Trazodone comes in immediate release and extended release formulations. The immediate release form is taken 2-3 times per day, while the extended release form is taken once daily.
Common side effects of trazodone include:
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Nausea
Less common but more serious side effects may include irregular heart rhythms, fainting, and priapism (prolonged, painful erections).
Is Trazodone Addictive?
Trazodone has a relatively low potential for abuse and addiction. However, it is possible to become dependent on trazodone with long-term use.
Dependency occurs when neurons adapt to the presence of the drug and reduce their own natural production of neurotransmitters like serotonin. When the medication is stopped abruptly, there is a neurotransmitter imbalance, which leads to withdrawal effects.
Signs of trazodone dependence may include:
- Taking higher doses than prescribed
- Continuing use despite side effects
- Unsuccessful attempts to cut back or quit
- Using trazodone compulsively
Physical dependence is not the same as addiction, which involves continued use despite harm and inability to control use. While not common, trazodone addiction is possible in some individuals.
Trazodone Withdrawal Symptoms
When trazodone is stopped suddenly after regular use, withdrawal symptoms are likely to occur. Possible trazodone withdrawal effects include:
- Insomnia
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Fatigue
- Sensory disturbances – burning, tingling, electric shock sensations
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Flu-like symptoms – headache, muscle pain
- Nightmares
- Nausea
Symptoms tend to start within a few days of quitting trazodone. They may be most intense during the first 1-2 weeks. Some withdrawal effects can persist for a month or more as the brain readjusts.
Dangers of Stopping Trazodone Cold Turkey
While trazodone withdrawal is usually not dangerous, abruptly stopping any psychiatric medication carries risks. Quitting cold turkey increases the likelihood of severe withdrawal effects.
Potential risks of suddenly stopping trazodone include:
- Worsening depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts
- Seizures
- Irregular heart rhythms
- Psychosis
For these reasons, it is not recommended to quit trazodone cold turkey without medical supervision. Tapering off slowly under a doctor’s care can prevent severe withdrawal symptoms.
How to Stop Taking Trazodone Safely
The safest way to stop trazodone is to gradually reduce the dosage over time under medical supervision. This gives your body time to readjust to functioning without the drug.
Your doctor can help design a custom trazodone tapering schedule based on factors like:
- How long you’ve taken it
- Your current dosage
- Your sensitivity to withdrawal effects
In general, tapering by 25-50 mg every 1-2 weeks is recommended. Slower tapers over several months may be advised for long-term users.
During the taper, your doctor will monitor you for any return of depression symptoms or physical withdrawal effects. If any symptoms become unmanageable, the taper may be paused or slowed further.
While tapering, be sure to take trazodone exactly as prescribed. Never alter your dosage or frequency of use without your doctor’s guidance.
Medications to Reduce Trazodone Withdrawal
Your doctor may prescribe certain medications to help ease the transition and reduce withdrawal symptoms when coming off trazodone. Options include:
Sleep aids – Short-term use of sleep medications like zolpidem (Ambien), eszopiclone (Lunesta), or zaleplon (Sonata) can help treat insomnia during withdrawal.
Benzodiazepines – Anti-anxiety drugs like lorazepam (Ativan) or clonazepam (Klonopin) may provide relief from anxiety, irritability, and sensory disturbances.
Antidepressants – Switching to or adding another antidepressant, like an SSRI, can smooth the transition during trazodone discontinuation.
Anticonvulsants – Gabapentin or pregabalin may help reduce pain, burning sensations, and sensory disturbances during withdrawal.
Clonidine – This blood pressure medication can ease sweating, anxiety, agitation, and other noradrenergic hyperactivity.
Seeking Medical Help for Trazodone Withdrawal
Attempting to stop trazodone on your own can be challenging and possibly dangerous. Medical detox facilities provide 24/7 monitoring and medications to alleviate withdrawal symptoms when coming off trazodone.
Inpatient rehab centers offer comprehensive treatment, including:
- Medically-supervised detox
- Individual and group counseling
- Aftercare planning
- Relapse prevention skills training
For individuals dependent on trazodone, addressing the underlying causes of use is crucial for long-term recovery. Treatment centers provide a supportive environment and customized treatment plans to meet each person’s needs.
If you or someone you care about is struggling to stop trazodone, contact a treatment provider today to explore rehab options. With professional help, trazodone withdrawal does not have to be endured alone or put your health at risk. Recovery is possible.
Key Takeaways
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Stopping trazodone abruptly can cause uncomfortable and possibly dangerous withdrawal symptoms.
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It is not recommended to quit trazodone cold turkey. Tapering off gradually under medical supervision is safest.
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Your doctor can prescribe medications and monitor you during the tapering process to ease withdrawal.
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Seeking treatment at a rehab facility provides full support for safely discontinuing trazodone while also addressing any underlying issues.
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With the right help, trazodone withdrawal can be managed for a successful recovery.
Trazodone Withdrawal Timeline
Antidepressant withdrawal time frames vary dramatically. Researchers say that symptoms typically begin within a few days and last for a few weeks.[5]
Based on this research, we can assume that a typical withdrawal timeline looks like this:[5]
Trazodone Withdrawal Timeline
| Within about 48 hours | Symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, and sleep disturbances begin. |
| Within the first two weeks | Symptoms begin to fade. |
| After four weeks | Symptoms are manageable |
Causes of Trazodone Withdrawal: Why Does It Happen?
Antidepressants like trazodone alter chemicals used by critical brain cells. Take them repeatedly, and you can develop physical dependence.
Your brain cells no longer function properly without the drug. Quit abruptly, and those cells malfunction and prompt withdrawal symptoms.
The primary cause of withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting trazodone is reduced serotonin.[2] Generally, the body and brain can correct this issue, but there is often an adjustment period, especially for individuals who have used trazodone for a prolonged period.
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FAQ
What happens if you stop taking trazodone suddenly?
Does trazodone need to be weaned?
Do you need to taper off trazodone?
What happens if you take trazodone every night?