Trazodone side effects

What kind of medication is trazodone?

Trazodone is a medication that belongs to the category ofantidepressants, which means that its mechanism of action basically consists ofblocking particular serotonin receptors and restoring the balance in theserotonin levels in the brain. Generally, it is used in the tablet form and ithas to be taken two or three times a day, preferably after a meal because it isbetter absorbed then. The exact dosage will depend on the age of the patient,as well as on other conditions that might be present, or other medications thatmight be taken at that period. It is highly recommended to take it every day atthe same time because that is the only way to keep its levels in the blood balanced, which is important for effectiveness.

What side effects are possible when it is used?

Given that trazodone belongs to the class of medicationsthat are used in the treatment of serious conditions and that are known for someserious side effects, it is important to take the medication exactly asprescribed and to pay attention to any change that occurs, either physical or psychological. Some that are regarded as the most frequent are dry mouth, headache,dizziness, tiredness, nausea, constipation, loss of weight, andblurred vision, although some people also complain about being more nervous andlightheaded. However, changes in the behavior are what is much more serious becauseanxiety, panic attacks, restlessness, aggressiveness, hallucinations, aresomething that is not at all easy to deal with. Besides these symptoms, pain inthe muscles, tremor, confusion, faster heart rate, hypertension, palpitations, problemswith sleeping, allergic reactions, and extreme changes of the mood – from extremehappiness to extremely sad mood or even depression, are also some of thepossible side effects. As for the unwanted symptoms, some of them might affectsex life of the patient as well, because changes in the sex drive, problemswith ejaculation and painful erections are also possible, though very rarely.

In order to avoid at least a part of these problems, it is importantto avoid combining trazodone with certain antibiotics, diclofenac, digoxin,medications known as MAOIs, protease inhibitors because of possible interactionsthat might have negative effect. People who suffer from certain mental diseasesor disorders, heart problems, and allergies should not use it at all, as wellas those who are about to undergo a surgery.