Trazodone is a drug used to treat depression by increasing the amount of serotonin, a chemical messenger, in the brain, according to MedlinePlus. Trazodone's antidepressant effect usually is not seen until two to four weeks after starting therapy; however, several side effects can be seen minutes to hours after taking trazodone.
Somnolence
Drugs.com reports somnolence, or excessive sleepiness, is the most common side effect of trazodone, occurring in up to 50 percent of patients taking the medication. Trazodone is frequently used to help with sleep disorders, particularly in patients with depression, says Dr. Jayaram of John Hopkins Hospital in the July-August 2005 issue of "Psychosomatics." Although trazodone may be prescribed for twice-a-day use, it should not be taken when driving or using hazardous equipment.
Abnormal Dreams
Nearly all drugs that alter serotonin levels in the brain, according to Drugs.com, can cause abnormal, often intense, dreams and trazodone is no exception. Dreams occur during rapid-eye-movement, or REM, sleep. Trazodone decreases the amount of REM sleep which is thought to contribute to dreaming abnormalities. This effect is most intense upon starting trazodone therapy and lessens with time.
Dizziness
Drugs.com says dizziness occurs in 10 to 30 percent of individuals taking trazodone. Symptoms usually begin within an hour after taking trazodone and may be accompanied by nausea. Taking trazodone after a light meal or snack helps prevent dizziness as does lying down after taking the drug.
Suicidal Thoughts
All antidepressants, including trazodone, can cause suicidal thoughts or actions early in the course of treatment, according to MedlinePlus. Children, teenagers and adults 24-years-old or younger are at greatest risk, although suicidal behavior after starting trazodone has been reported in all age groups. Thoughts of self-harm, agitation, insomnia, panic attacks, extreme restlessness or new onset of aggressiveness after beginning therapy with trazodone should be promptly reported to a health care provider.
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