Trazodone Withdrawal: Symptoms & Timeline

Trazodone is an antidepressant that is often used to treat major depressive disorders and manage insomnia. While the drug does not fit the standard antidepressant class, trazodone can be habit-forming and can be misused.

 

Trazodone can have side effects and withdrawals if a person suddenly stops taking or cuts back their use. Read on to understand trazodone withdrawal symptoms and signs and when you or a loved one should seek treatment for trazodone addiction.

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What Is Trazodone?

Trazodone was designed as an antipsychotic medication but was found to be more effective as an antidepressant. Available as an oral tablet that is taken one to three times a day, trazodone is a prescription drug used to treat those experiencing major depressive disorders, anxiety, insomnia, and pain. 

 

Trazodone is a serotonin antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI), which means that the drug increases the level of serotonin in the brain.

 

This generic drug is also known by its brand names like Desyrel and Oleptro. It has been proven to be as efficient as other drug classes like tricyclic antidepressants, serotonin-norepinephrine receptor inhibitors, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

 

However, trazodone can be habit-forming and lead to withdrawals when a user has a developed dependency on the prescription drug. 

Understanding Trazodone Addiction

While trazodone is generally safe, the drug can be misused and abused, leading to an addiction. The prescription drug is believed to have a lower abuse risk compared to benzodiazepines or other hypnotics prescribed for major depression disorders or insomnia[1].

 

People who are at risk for addiction include those with a history of substance abuse or who have been using trazodone for a long time. These individuals may experience trazodone side effects and withdrawal symptoms.

Who Is at Risk?

Trazodone is a prescribed medication to help those with mental health concerns. However, people can develop a tolerance to the drug and increase their usage without talking to their doctor to achieve the desired effect.

 

There are a few signs that a person is at risk of developing a trazodone addiction: 

 

  • Increasing Dosage or Frequency: Taking the drug frequently or in larger amounts than originally prescribed.
  • Continued Use Without Necessity: Using the drug even when there is no longer a medical need for it.
  • Strong Urges or Cravings: Someone is experiencing an overwhelming desire to use the substance.
  • Ignoring Responsibilities: Prioritizing drug use over important activities or obligations.
  • Persistent Use Despite Consequences: Continuing to use the drug even when it leads to issues like strained relationships or job loss.

If you or a loved one notices any of these signs, contact your doctor or a local addiction treatment center to find the best solution. Addiction treatment may be necessary to help rewire the brain and address any other issues that may have led to trazodone misuse. 

Trazodone Overdose

It is possible to overdose on trazodone. While they are uncommon, increasing dosage (anything over 600 mg in 24 hours) or using the drug along with other substances like alcohol or opioids can increase the chances of overdosing.

 

Again, trazodone has low abuse potential, but it still comes with risks. 

Trazodone Withdrawal Symptoms

Trazodone withdrawal symptoms can occur when someone abruptly stops taking the drug. Side effects of stopping trazodone can lead to antidepressant discontinuation syndrome, which is when depression and anxiety begin to manifest. Because the prescription medication was changing the brain to reduce mental health disorders, ending use can reduce the number of receptors. The decrease in receptors creates a short-term deficiency of serotonin activity. 

 

Symptoms of trazodone withdrawal include[2]:

 

  • Chills
  • Depersonalization
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Headaches
  • Irritability
  • Nausea/vomiting
  • Shock-like sensations
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Trouble concentrating

Over time, the body and brain will correct itself, but the timeline from quitting to recovery can be challenging and uncomfortable. 

The best way to handle withdrawal symptoms of trazodone is by consulting a medical professional and discussing treatment options.

Trazodone Withdrawal Timeline & Treatment

The trazodone withdrawal timeline will largely depend on the dosage and length of use. Every person will experience a different withdrawal period. Because withdrawal symptoms of trazodone can be uncomfortable, doctors will often recommend a plan for those taking the medication to end use over several weeks slowly.

 

In the case of polysubstance abuse, detox and addiction treatment are recommended to help manage symptoms of withdrawal from multiple substances.

 

Detox will also help someone experiencing polysubstance abuse find addiction treatment that will help them address the thoughts and behaviors that contributed to their experiences of misuse.

Find a Trazodone Detox Near Me

Addiction is a complex issue, but you are worthy of taking the necessary steps away from addiction toward a healthy, fulfilling life. Tree House Recovery offers different levels of care for substance abuse and misuse to help you manage stressors and cope with the underlying roots connected to your addiction. 

 

Call today to speak with one of our admission team members in Portland about a treatment plan that will help you build the foundations of the life you want to live.

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  1. James, S.P., & Mendelson, W.B. (2004). The use of trazodone as a hypnotic: a critical review. The Journal of clinical psychiatry, 65 6, 752-5.
  2. Drugs.com. (2019). Trazodone. Retrieved on February 28, 2025 from https://www.drugs.com/trazodone.html