Trazodone users often turn to alcohol to increase the sedative and calming effects of trazodone, not realizing how lethal the combination is. Since trazodone and alcohol are both central nervous system depressants, their effects are synergistic and can lead to severe sedative symptoms and damage. Avenues Recovery explores the harmful and potentially deadly consequences of this combination.
What is Trazodone?
Trazodone, also known as Desyrel, Oleptro, Deprax, Trialodine, or Desyrel Dividose, is a commonly prescribed antidepressant in the treatment of major depressive disorder. Trazodone is also used off-label to treat conditions such as: schizophrenia, bulimia, fibromyalgia, chronic pain, dementia, benzodiazepine and/or alcohol dependence, and more commonly, for insomnia and anxiety that are associated with depression.
Trazodone belongs to a class of drugs called serotonin receptor antagonists and reuptake inhibitors (SARIs). These drugs increase the amount of active serotonin in the central nervous system. Since serotonin is a neurotransmitter that creates feelings of happiness and satisfaction, symptoms of depression and anxiety are relieved as a result of taking the drug.
Can You Take Trazodone with Alcohol?
No, it is not safe to take trazodone with alcohol. It can be tempting to drink alcohol while taking trazodone, as their combination can produce very calming effects. However, this is certainly not recommended as the repercussions are not worth the few minutes of pleasure.
Risks Of Mixing Trazodone and Alcohol
The following are additive effects one will suffer from when combining trazodone with alcohol:
- Sedation
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Impaired judgment/thinking
- Dramatic mood swings
- Fainting
- Increased depression or anxiety
- Suicidal thoughts
- Worsened insomnia
It’s important to note that although alcohol and trazodone are both taken to treat depression and anxiety, ironically, when taken together, the combination can cause mood swings, increased depression, and anxiety. Trazodone interactions with alcohol prevent trazodone from doing its job and worsen the symptoms it’s supposed to treat. For instance, if someone is using trazodone to help with insomnia, drinking alcohol can actually make it harder to sleep and increase anxiety.
Can You Overdose on Trazodone and Alcohol?
Mixing trazodone with alcohol is dangerous because it significantly increases the risk of overdose. Both substances have sedative effects that slow down brain activity, breathing, and heart rate. When taken together, these effects can intensify, making you feel more drowsy or disoriented than expected. Because their effects are similar, it can be hard to tell how much alcohol is too much, which may lead to unintentionally drinking more than is safe. This can result in severe alcohol intoxication, which can be life-threatening.
Is Trazodone and Alcohol Death Possible?
Due to the dangerous side effects of trazodone interactions with alcohol, coma and even death are potential consequences. There isn’t yet enough research to show overdose and addiction rates of mixing trazodone and alcohol, and studies of past deaths that occurred as a result of combining the two are very few. Despite this, when taking trazodone, one should be well aware of the risks.
Other dangerous outcomes of mixing trazodone with alcohol include:
- Polysubstance abuse
- Damage to the brain, heart and other organs
- Coma or death
Can I Take Trazodone After Drinking Alcohol?
It is not recommended to take trazodone immediately after consuming alcohol. There is no exact time for how long you should wait to take trazodone after drinking, the timing depends on individual factors such as how much alcohol was consumed, body weight, metabolism, and overall health. Age, weight and health all play a role in determining how long it takes for the body to rid itself of substances, so the length of time one should wait varies. The body metabolizes alcohol at a rate of one drink per hour, and trazodone has a half-life of 10-12 hours, so ideally one should avoid alcohol entirely while taking trazodone.
Overcoming Trazodone and Alcohol Addiction
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol use or trazodone misuse, you're not alone, we are here. Avenues Recovery offers compassionate, expert care with personalized treatment plans to support your journey to sobriety. We've helped thousands reclaim their lives, and we're here to help you too. Contact us today to take the first step toward a healthier, addiction-free future.
FAQs about Trazodone and Alcohol
Can trazodone be used to treat alcohol withdrawal or cravings?
Doctors may prescribe trazodone to help with sleep problems during alcohol withdrawal, but it’s not meant to treat alcohol addiction or reduce cravings. It should only be taken under the guidance of a medical professional.
What are the signs of a trazodone and alcohol overdose?
Warning signs may include severe drowsiness, difficulty breathing, vomiting, confusion, slow heart rate, or loss of consciousness. If you suspect an overdose, call 911 immediately.
What should I do if I accidentally took trazodone after drinking?
If you accidentally took trazodone after consuming alcohol, monitor your symptoms closely. If you feel unusually drowsy, dizzy, or have trouble breathing, seek medical help right away.
Where can I get help for trazodone or alcohol misuse?
If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol or trazodone misuse, Avenues Recovery offers compassionate, evidence-based treatment to support recovery. Reach out today to take your first step toward a healthier, addiction-free life.