The Dangers of Mixing Trazodone and Alcohol

When you take daily medications, you might not think about the interactions they can have with other substances. For example, let’s say you take trazodone to treat your depression or anxiety. You might think it’s no big deal to have a couple of glasses of wine or take shots with your friends.

Unfortunately, alcohol and trazodone should never be mixed. Both substances are central nervous system depressants, and combining them could lead to an overdose. Additionally, trazodone and alcohol increase the amount of serotonin in your brain, which can lead to a dangerous condition known as serotonin syndrome.

Since it is dangerous to combine alcohol and trazodone, you should never drink while taking the medication. It is important to consult with your doctor to determine whether any amount of alcohol is safe.

In this article, you will learn:

• What is trazodone
• What effects does trazodone cause
• Can you drink while taking trazodone
• What are the dangers of mixing alcohol and trazodone

What is Trazodone?

Trazodone is a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI). Doctors prescribe it to treat depression, anxiety, and trouble sleeping. When taken as directed, trazodone can be a great tool for improving your mental health.

Even though trazodone is not known to be addictive, it can lead to sedative effects. The common side effects of trazodone include:[1]

• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Changes in appetite
• Muscle weakness
• Fatigue, dizziness, and drowsiness
• Nightmares or sleep disturbances
• Muscle aches and pains
• Dry mouth
• Changes in blood pressure
• Changes in sex drive or ability

Trazodone can treat major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and insomnia. For the medication to be effective, you have to take it long-term. It can take up to two weeks to experience the benefits of trazodone.

Can You Drink Alcohol While Taking Trazodone?

If your doctor prescribes you trazodone, you might hear them mention that you should avoid alcoholic drinksmbecause the effects of alcohol can increase the risk of adverse effects associated with trazodone.

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), “Trazodone hydrochloride tablets may make your sleepiness or dizziness worse if you take it with alcohol or other medicines that cause sleepiness or dizziness.”[2]

It is also important to note that consuming alcohol can make the symptoms of a mental health condition worse because repetitive alcohol consumption could diminish the benefits of a mental health medication like trazodone.

What are the Risks of Combining Alcohol and Trazodone?

While trazodone is not known to be addictive, you might attempt to abuse it by combining it with alcohol. Unfortunately, alcohol and trazodone abuse can be dangerous. Not only can it increase symptoms like dizziness and drowsiness, but it can lead to serotonin syndrome and overdose.

The dangers of mixing alcohol and trazodone include:

Serotonin Syndrome

Combining trazodone and alcohol can lead to a dangerous condition known as serotonin syndrome. Both substances increase the amount of serotonin released in your brain. If you have too much serotonin, you could experience life-threatening symptoms.

The symptoms of serotonin syndrome may include:[3]

• Irritability and agitation
• Restlessness
• Diarrhea
• Fast heartbeat and increased blood pressure
• Nausea and vomiting
• Increased body temperature
• Excessive sweating
• Coordination problems
• Overactive reflexes
• Auditory and visual hallucinations
• Seizures

According to a study, there are about 7,300 diagnosed cases of serotonin syndrome each year and 100 of them will result in death.[3] You should always seek medical attention if you believe you are experiencing serotonin syndrome.

Overdose

Alcohol and trazodone are both considered central nervous system (CNS) depressants. This means they slow down activity in your brain. When you combine them, your CNS could become slowed to dangerous rates, leading to an overdose.

If you are experiencing a trazodone and alcohol overdose, you might notice the following symptoms:

• Extreme drowsiness or sedation
• Loss of consciousness and not responding to stimuli
• Vomiting
• Slowed or stopped breathing
• Irregular heartbeat
• Seizures

If you believe that you are suffering from an overdose, contact 911 immediately. CNS depression could quickly become fatal without emergency medical treatment.

Find Help for Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism

If you or a loved one suffers from alcohol addiction, it’s time to seek help. Whether you are combining medications like trazodone with your alcohol or drinking it alone, a rehab center can help you recover. You will be offered services like medical detox, evidence-based therapies, and relapse prevention planning.

At New Jersey Addiction Interventions, we can refer you to a top-rated alcohol rehab program in your area. If your loved one is refusing treatment, we can also set up an alcoholism intervention to convince them to receive the help they need.

Contact us today for more information on alcohol interventions, addiction treatment, and how to begin your recovery journey. New Jersey Addiction Interventions is here to help you with all of your addiction recovery needs.

References:

1. Medline Plus: Trazodone
2. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA): Trazodone Label
3. Medscape: Serotonin Syndrome