One of the best ways to avoid severe withdrawal symptoms is to taper off trazodone gradually rather than stopping it abruptly. If withdrawal symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider for guidance. The symptoms of trazodone withdrawal can range from mild to severe, depending on the individual. These symptoms occur because the body has become used to the medication’s effects – especially on serotonin levels. When someone has been taking trazodone for an extended period and suddenly stops, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. In some cases, the medication can be helpful for people with PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), as it can ease anxiety and improve sleep quality.
Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)
DBT also helps clients identify negative influences in their lives and learn how to develop healthy coping skills. Dialectical-behavior therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy that focuses on mindfulness, how to live in the moment, cope with stress, and improve relationships. CBT also helps clients find solutions to triggers that might encourage drug use. CBT helps individuals change negative cycles of thought and behavior into more positive ones. Rehab facilities that offer dual diagnosis are often staffed with psychiatrists or clinical therapists that can diagnose or treat co-occurring mental health conditions. These programs can include counseling, group therapy, 12-Step groups, skills development, goal setting, and relapse prevention training.
For example, people who suddenly stop using Desyrel after taking it for 8 weeks are at a higher risk of developing discontinuation syndrome. This is because discontinuation syndrome symptoms from Desyrel often mimic those of depression. In someone taking the drug to deal with bulimia, this is problematic.
If you have depression or anxiety, those issues might flare up during withdrawal. Trazodone withdrawal hits everyone a little differently. Trazodone withdrawal People with anxiety or depression may feel worse during this time. Trazodone withdrawal can affect your body and mind. People with past trauma or anxiety may feel symptoms more deeply. When the drug leaves your system, your brain has to re-balance.
Why Does Trazodone Withdrawal Occur?
Discontinuing trazodone is a significant milestone in your journey toward better mental health. With determination and support, recovery is not just possible—it’s within reach. While the adjustment period may present challenges, the long-term benefits of successfully transitioning off trazodone can be profound, offering renewed confidence and control over your mental health.
Trazodone Uses
To further assist you along the path to recovery, the treatment center locator on our website allows you to easily find rehabilitation programs and services in your local area. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction to drugs or alcohol, you are not alone. You can also find a list of treatment centers near you on our website to help get you on the path to recovery. If you or a loved one are struggling with trazodone abuse or addiction, you are not alone.
These facilities usually provide 24-hour medical support and are often led by a team of counselors, clinicians, and doctors. These clinics also provide medications to ease some of the symptoms. Detoxing from trazodone is best done safely under medical supervision, where clinicians can keep you safe and comfortable.
Understanding Hydroxyzine for Anxiety: How It Works, When It Helps, and What to Expect
Trazodone alters brain chemistry by increasing serotonin levels. Trazodone is a prescription medication primarily used to treat depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Give us a call today to verify your insurance coverage or to learn more about paying for addiction treatment. At Renaissance Recovery our goal is to provide evidence-based treatment to as many individuals as possible. The unique aspect of every addiction is reflected in personalized treatment plans at Renaissance. This lets you meet your everyday commitments while getting first-class addiction treatment during weekday sessions.
Nausea and gastrointestinal issues
In men, trazodone has been linked to a condition called priapism. Some people may encounter a decrease in sex drive or experience difficulty becoming aroused. Trazodone may affect sexual health for both men and women.
Trazodone Treatment Programs
Fortunately, some strategies can help improve sleep quality during this period. Withdrawal can be uncomfortable, but in most cases, symptoms improve within a few weeks. Beyond this, physical symptoms like nausea and dizziness can make it difficult to function in daily life. For this reason, it’s generally recommended to taper off trazodone gradually rather than stopping it all at once. This adjustment period can lead to uncomfortable physical and emotional symptoms. This condition involves a painful, prolonged erection that requires medical attention.
Age and physical and mental health at the time of quitting trazodone will further affect the severity of withdrawal symptoms. We provide safe, supportive withdrawal from prescription medications like trazodone and offer ongoing treatment for prescription drug misuse. If, at any point, the withdrawal symptoms become too difficult, the tapering process can be slowed down to allow more time for adjustment. In some cases, individuals going through medication withdrawal may benefit from addiction counseling or therapy to address the emotional and psychological aspects of the process.
Supportive Care and Lifestyle Changes
- They will also determine whether the individual might need a different type of medication moving forward.
- For severe or persistent symptoms, temporary use of other medications or additional therapy may be recommended by your healthcare provider.
- No matter the reason for stopping the use of this substance, anyone who does stands the risk of experiencing Trazodone withdrawal symptoms.
- This requires an individual to stop taking trazodone, and this is best done through medically supervised detox.
Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective therapies for substance abuse and concurrent mental health conditions. This allows clinicians to address these conditions alongside withdrawal from the trazodone itself. During rehab, centers and clinics will provide a range of treatments such as medications, counseling, and behavioral therapies. Standard outpatient programs are suited to individuals who have just completed an inpatient program and want to continue some form of therapy. Treatment typically consists of individual psychotherapy, group therapy, wellness programs (e.g., health and fitness), family programming, nutrition, and more. Long-term inpatient programs can also be more effective as they provide an opportunity for a person to detox from substances and spend time getting to the root causes of their addiction.
Emotional symptoms like anxiety and mood swings can be particularly challenging because trazodone is often used to help manage these feelings. When trazodone is suddenly removed, the brain needs time to adjust to working without it. Since trazodone is often used as a sleep aid, drowsiness is one of the most frequent effects.
- Amongst those taking the medication correctly and under the supervision of a doctor, those using Desyrel for depression treatment stand to experience the most painful symptoms.
- Founded in 2014, Addiction Resource provides free support and guidance for addiction recovery.
- Anyone who consumed alcohol and Desyrel together should contact medical assistance to prevent dangerous health events.
- Age and physical and mental health at the time of quitting trazodone will further affect the severity of withdrawal symptoms.
Finding a healthcare provider with experience in tapering off medications is crucial for a safe and effective discontinuation process. For severe or persistent symptoms, temporary use of other medications or additional therapy may be recommended by your healthcare provider. Gradual tapering under a healthcare provider’s supervision is the most effective way to minimize withdrawal effects. However, for individuals who have been using trazodone for an extended period or at higher doses, the tapering process could extend over several months. The duration of a safe tapering process depends on several factors, including the current dosage, the length of time trazodone has been used, and individual responses to dose reductions.
We cannot guarantee payment or verification eligibility as conveyed by your health insurance provider will be accurate and complete. For additional treatment options, visit the SAMHSA Treatment Locator. All calls are confidential, and the information on AddictionResource.com is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice.
Others discontinue use due to concerns about long-term side effects, adverse reactions, or the abuse potential of the medication. The severity of withdrawal depends on factors such as current dose, daily dose, and individual mental health issues. Due to its sedative properties, it is also prescribed as a sleep aid and an off-label treatment for chronic pain. As a serotonin modulator, it affects serotonin levels, which play a key role in mental health disorders such as mood disorders and bipolar disorder. If needed, seek referrals to specialists, such as psychiatrists or addiction medicine experts, who have advanced training in medication management. Ask about their approach to tapering and whether they have specific experience with trazodone.
