Trazodone (also known as desyrel), is an antidepressant intended to increase levels of serotonin, thus restoring chemical balance to the brain and alleviating the symptoms of depression and anxiety. While effective, side effects can outweigh the benefits of the treatment; knowing what these side effects are will help you make the best decision for your course of treatment.
Common Side Effects
According to eMedTV.com, 5 to 40 percent of patients taking Trazodone experience drowsiness, dizziness, nervousness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, confusion, weight loss, tremors (an uncontrollable shaking), dry mouth, headaches, blurred vision, fatigue, the onset of low blood pressure, sinus congestion or muscle pain.
Additional Common Side Effects
An additional 1 to 5 percent of patients suffer from side effects such as lack of coordination, diarrhea, lack of concentration, a bad taste in the mouth, ringing in the ears and shortness of breath. Some patients report fainting, weight gain, high blood pressure, increased perspiration and decreased libido (sex drive).
Serious Side Effects
The professionals at Drugs.com recommend you contact your doctor immediately should you suffer from thoughts of suicide, anxiety, depression, agitation, urges to indulge in risky behavior, extreme mood swings, hallucinations, chest or heart palpitations, hostile feelings or insomnia.
Rare Side Effects
Rare side effects include anemia, changes in menstrual cycles, blood in the urine, difficulty speaking, difficulty ejaculating, muscle twitches, difficulty urinating, excessive gas (flatulence), increased saliva production, and increased appetite and sex drive. According to eMedTV.com, these occur in less than 1 percent of those taking this medication.
Signs of Overdose
Seek emergency medical attention if you experience extreme drowsiness, prolonged or painful erection, seizures, vomiting, an uneven heart rate or slow respiration. These are all indications that you may have taken too much Trazodone.
Signs of Allergic Reaction
Call 911 immediately if your tongue, face, lips or throat swells, you find it difficult to breathe or swallow, you have a sudden onset of hives or develop an unexplained rash. These could all indicate an allergic reaction to Trazodone.
Member Comments