Trazodone is a medication often prescribed to manage depression, but also commonly used to help people with anxiety and insomnia related to depression. Trazodone can be effective for these conditions, but it may trigger side effects and complications. Stopping trazodone abruptly can cause withdrawal symptoms.

This guide explains what to expect during trazodone withdrawal, how to taper off safely, and where to find compassionate support.

What Is Trazodone?

Trazodone is a medication that’s most often prescribed to treat major depressive disorder (MMD). It works by adjusting levels of serotonin, a brain chemical that governs mood, sleep, and emotional well-being.

Trazodone is part of a drug group called serotonin modulators. [1] These drugs help restore balance to serotonin levels in the brain. While its primary use is for depression, trazodone is also commonly used to treat sleep problems or episodes of anxiety, helping people relax, manage stress, and sleep more soundly.

Trazodone Uses

Although trazodone is officially approved to treat depression, doctors often prescribe it for other reasons. [2] One common off-label use is for insomnia, as trazodone’s sedative effects can help people fall asleep and stay asleep. However, long term use of trazodone for sleep is generally not recommended. 

It’s also used to treat anxiety, especially in people who have both anxiety and depression. In some cases, the medication can be helpful for people with PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), as it can ease anxiety and improve sleep quality. Some healthcare providers also recommend trazodone for conditions like fibromyalgia or chronic pain, although this is less common.

Common Dosages

Trazodone comes in different doses depending on the condition being treated and individual needs.

For depression, 150mg is a typical starting dose. This may be adjusted according to how the person responds to the medication. Some people may need higher doses of 400mg for outpatient treatment or up to 600mg when hospitalized. Much lower doses are prescribed to manage insomnia or anxiety, starting as low as 25mg or 50mg at bedtime.

Additionally, the trazodone half life (the amount of time it takes 50% of the drug to clear from your system) is 5-9 hours. Your doctor will decide the proper dosage based on your symptoms and how your body processes and reacts to the medication.

Trazodone Side Effects

Like most medications, trazodone can cause side effects. These effects vary depending on dosage and how long the medication is used. Some side effects may be mild and dissipate over time as the body adjusts, while others might be more serious and require medical attention. Developing an awareness of these potential side effects enables you to reach out to your doctor if you experience any issues while taking trazodone.

Common Side Effects of Trazodone

The most common side effects associated with this medication are normally mild and may include:

• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Headaches
• Blurred vision

Since trazodone is often used as a sleep aid, drowsiness is one of the most frequent effects. This may be helpful for people with insomnia, but it may disrupt daily activities for others. Some people may also feel dizzy or lightheaded, especially when standing up quickly. These side effects are not usually serious. If they persist or worsen, though, consult a healthcare provider.

What Are the Long Term Effects of Trazodone?

So, What are the long term side effects of trazodone? Long-term use of this medication may bring about more serious side effects, although these are less common. Those who take trazodone for an extended period may experience:

• Memory problems
• Weight gain
• Muscle weakness
• Heart rhythm issues
• Low blood pressure

Another potential long-term side effect of trazodone is a condition called serotonin syndrome. [3] This happens when there is too much serotonin in the brain and can cause confusion, tremors, sweating, and rapid heart rate. This condition is rare but serious and demands immediate medical intervention.

Beyond this, long term use of trazodone may increase the risk of withdrawal symptoms when stopping the medication. Symptoms can be eased by tapering off gradually under a doctor’s supervision.

Trazodone Female Side Effects

While trazodone’s side effects are normally similar for men and women, there are a few that may be more noticeable in females. One common issue is weight gain, which may occur with long term use. Some women may also experience hormonal changes, irregular periods, or changes in their menstrual cycle. Additionally, trazodone can sometimes cause an increase in dizziness or low blood pressure, which may be more noticeable in females. Women taking trazodone should monitor these side effects and discuss any concerns with their prescribing physician.

Trazodone Side Effects: Sexually

Trazodone may affect sexual health for both men and women. Some people may encounter a decrease in sex drive or experience difficulty becoming aroused.

In men, trazodone has been linked to a condition called priapism [4]. This condition involves a painful, prolonged erection that requires medical attention.

Women may also notice changes in sexual function, including difficulty achieving orgasm or reduced sensation. 

These sexual side effects can affect relationships and overall well-being, so talk to a doctor if you experience any of these issues while taking trazodone. 

Trazodone Withdrawal

When someone has been taking trazodone for an extended period and suddenly stops, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms occur because the body has become used to the medication’s effects – especially on serotonin levels. When trazodone is suddenly removed, the brain needs time to adjust to working without it. This adjustment period can lead to uncomfortable physical and emotional symptoms. The severity of withdrawal can vary depending on how long the person has been using the medication, the dosage, and how quickly they stop. For this reason, it’s generally recommended to taper off trazodone gradually rather than stopping it all at once.

Trazodone Withdrawal Symptoms

The symptoms of trazodone withdrawal can range from mild to severe, depending on the individual. Common withdrawal symptoms may include:

• Anxiety
• Irritability
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Sweating
• Mood swings

Trazodone withdrawal symptoms usually appear within a few days of stopping the medication. Emotional symptoms like anxiety and mood swings can be particularly challenging because trazodone is often used to help manage these feelings. Beyond this, physical symptoms like nausea and dizziness can make it difficult to function in daily life. Some people may experience more severe symptoms like vivid dreams, confusion, or seizures.  Speak with a doctor if withdrawal symptoms become severe or difficult to manage.

Withdrawal Timeline

The timeline for trazodone withdrawal can vary, but most people will begin to notice symptoms within the first few days after stopping the medication. Here’s a general idea of what to expect:

• Days 1 to 3: In the first few days after stopping trazodone, mild symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, and irritability may appear. Some people may feel anxious or have difficulty sleeping, especially if trazodone was used to help with insomnia.
• Days 4 to 7: This is when withdrawal symptoms often peak. During this period, emotional symptoms like anxiety and irritability may intensify. Physical symptoms like nausea, sweating, and fatigue may also become more noticeable. For some, this stage is the most difficult part of the withdrawal process.
• Week 2 and beyond: After the first week, many symptoms fade. However, some people may continue to experience mood swings or sleep disturbances for several weeks. It’s also possible that symptoms could last longer, especially if the person is taking a high dose of trazodone for an extended period.

Withdrawal can be uncomfortable, but in most cases, symptoms improve within a few weeks. If withdrawal symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider for guidance.

Stopping Trazodone: How to Wean Off Trazodone

One of the best ways to avoid severe withdrawal symptoms is to taper off trazodone gradually rather than stopping it abruptly. Tapering allows the body and brain to slowly adjust to lower levels of the medication, reducing the intensity of withdrawal symptoms. The process of weaning off trazodone should always be done under the supervision of a doctor, who will create a personalized plan based on dosage and treatment length.

Tapering typically involves reducing the trazodone dosage in small steps over time. A doctor may suggest lowering the dosage by 10% to 25% every week or two, depending on how the person responds. This slow reduction gives the body time to adapt to each new lower dose, minimizing withdrawal symptoms. If, at any point, the withdrawal symptoms become too difficult, the tapering process can be slowed down to allow more time for adjustment. Patience is integral to a successful taper, as it may take several weeks or even months to fully stop taking the medication without experiencing severe withdrawal.

How to Sleep After Stopping Trazodone

One of the biggest challenges for people stopping trazodone is dealing with sleep problems, particularly if the medication was initially prescribed to help with insomnia. Sleep disturbances like difficulty falling asleep, waking up frequently during the night, or experiencing vivid dreams are common during withdrawal. Fortunately, some strategies can help improve sleep quality during this period.

• Develop a relaxing bedtime routine: Setting up a routine before bed can help your body recognize it’s time to relax. Consider calming activities like reading, soothing music, or a warm bath. Avoid stimulating actions like using electronic devices or watching television just before sleeping.
• Practice relaxation techniques: Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation can help calm your mind and body, making it easier to fall asleep. These techniques can be helpful if you’re feeling anxious or stressed during withdrawal.
• Maintain a regular sleep routine: Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day helps keep your body’s internal clock steady. Try to follow this routine, even on weekends, to prevent throwing off your sleep cycle.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol: Both caffeine and alcohol can interfere with sleep, so avoid these substances, especially in the evening. Instead, opt for herbal teas or other caffeine-free drinks that won’t disrupt sleep.

If sleep problems persist, talk to your doctor. They may recommend non-medicated approaches or, in some cases, temporary use of a different sleep aid to help you adjust.

A Trazodone Taper Schedule

Your doctor is the only one qualified to create a trazodone taper schedule tailored to your needs. However, a typical trazodone taper schedule is designed to gradually reduce the dosage over several weeks or months, depending on individual needs. Here’s an example of what a tapering schedule might look like:

• Week 1: Reduce the dosage by 10% to 25%. If you’re taking 150mg of trazodone, this might mean lowering it to 125mg or 100mg per day, depending on your doctor’s instructions.
• Week 2 to 3: If you’re tolerating the reduced dose well, lower the dosage by another 10% to 25% – you might reduce from 100mg to 75mg.
• Week 4 to 5: Continue reducing the dose in small steps. By this stage, you might be down to 50mg or less, depending on how your body is adjusting.
• Week 6 and beyond: For people on lower doses, the final steps might involve reducing by even smaller amounts, such as going from 25mg to 12.5mg before stopping completely. 

The exact tapering plan will depend on how long you’ve been taking trazodone and how high your dose was. The key is to go slow and listen to your body. However, if withdrawal symptoms become too uncomfortable, you can pause at your current dose for a while before attempting to lower it again.

Working closely with a healthcare provider throughout the process is central to success. They can adjust the schedule as needed and provide support to manage any symptoms that arise.

Trazodone | FAQs

Is trazodone memory loss real?

Yes, trazodone may trigger short-term memory issues in some people, especially with sustained use. Memory problems usually improve after stopping the medications, and you should discuss any concerns with your physician.

What happens if you miss a trazodone dose?

When possible, take the missed trazodone dose as soon as you remember unless it’s close to your next dose. Don’t double up on trazodone to make up for missed doses.

What is the trazodone half life?

Trazodone has a half life of 5 to 9 hours, meaning it takes 5 to 9 hours for half of the drug to leave your system. It usually takes several days for the medication to be fully cleared from your body.

Does trazodone cause brain fog?

Yes, trazodone can sometimes cause brain fog, especially when first starting the medication or when adjusting the dose. This side effect usually lessens over time as your body gets used to the drug.

Can I take trazodone for alcohol withdrawal?

Trazodone is not typically prescribed for alcohol withdrawal. However, it may help with sleep or anxiety during the process. Always consult a doctor for appropriate treatment options.

Is trazodone addictive?

Trazodone is not considered highly addictive in the same way as alcohol or opioids. That said, it can cause dependence if used long term. Stopping suddenly may lead to the onset of withdrawal symptoms. It’s best to taper off under medical supervision.

Get Effective Treatment for Trazodone Withdrawal at Renaissance Recovery

We provide safe, supportive withdrawal from prescription medications like trazodone and offer ongoing treatment for prescription drug misuse.

At Renaissance Recovery, we treat all addictions and mental health disorders in an outpatient setting at our luxury rehab centers in California and Florida. This lets you meet your everyday commitments while getting first-class addiction treatment during weekday sessions.

The unique aspect of every addiction is reflected in personalized treatment plans at Renaissance. Therapies may include:

• Talk therapies
• Motivational therapies
• MAT (medication-assisted treatment)
• Family therapy
• Group therapy
• Counseling
• Holistic therapy
• Aftercare

Begin your recovery from trazodone misuse by calling 866-330-9449.

Sources

[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470560/

[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3693429/

[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6184959/

[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7801163/