Using medication to treat depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders is an effective way of managing symptoms and helping people get through the day. One type of medication that can treat depression and other disorders is trazodone, which is the active ingredient in the brand names Desyrel, Desyrel Dividose, Oleptro, and Trazodone D. Those who are taking this medication will wonder, Is trazodone addictive? Any type of medication that affects serotonin and dopamine levels can potentially cause an addiction if you abuse the medication.
At Skywood Recovery, we welcome anyone who is struggling with a substance use disorder caused by abusing prescription medication, alcohol, cocaine, or other substances. Our center provides a full complement of treatment programs that utilize proven therapeutic techniques along with medical support. Each program is tailored to the individual’s unique symptoms and focuses on uncovering the root cause of the issue so true healing can begin. If you or a loved one is abusing trazodone or other anti-depressant medications, call us at 269.280.4673 today to learn how our substance use disorder treatments can benefit your recovery.
Using Trazodone to Improve Your Mental Health
Depression in the U.S. continues to climb, and a recent study has found that 29% of Americans experience depression at some point in their lives. One way people are managing their symptoms is through trazodone. Trazodone is a type of serotonin receptor antagonist and reuptake inhibitor (SARI) that treats symptoms of major depressive disorders.
Trazodone works by restoring the delicate chemical balance within your system by increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that we naturally produce. It helps regulate mood, emotions, sexual desire, and bowel movements. It can also help people feel more focused throughout the day and manage their emotions more effectively. In addition to treating depression, trazodone can treat:
- Insomnia
- Schizophrenia
- Anxiety
- Alcohol use disorders
Trazodone is safe to take as an antidepressant for an extended period of time. The average dose each person takes will depend on the severity of their symptoms, but it generally starts off with 150mg per day and can increase up to 400mg per day. Participating in depression therapy while taking trazodone may decrease the amount of medication necessary to keep depressive symptoms at bay.
Skywood Recovery is a full-service mental health treatment facility that provides medication-assisted treatment along with behavioral and holistic therapies to create a whole-person recovery experience. Using medication to treat depression is safe when you follow the prescription and abstain from using drugs or alcohol while on trazodone or other anti-depressant medications.
Is Trazodone Addictive?
Abusing medication like trazodone can be very dangerous and can worsen depressive symptoms and lead to a substance use disorder, which can complicate the recovery process. While trazodone is safe to take, there is a risk of addiction and serious medical harm. Mixing trazodone with alcohol, barbituates, or another sedative like Valium can be fatal.
When taking trazodone, you should avoid drinking alcohol as that can produce many dangerous side effects. You should also avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin, ibuprofen, Advil, and Motrin, as they can cause patients to bruise or bleed easily.
Common side effects of trazodone include:
- Drowsiness
- Swelling
- Weight loss
- Blurred vision
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Stuffy nose
If you experience any of the following symptoms, stop taking trazodone and call your doctor immediately:
- Fast or pounding heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Unusual thoughts or behaviors
- Unusual bleeding
- Headache
- Confusion
- Loss of coordination
- An erection that lasts for more than 6 hours
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved trazodone for the treatment of major depressive disorders and other mental health illnesses. This medication is safe to take when you follow the prescription and work with your medical doctor as your symptoms change.
Sign Up Today for Substance Use Disorder Treatment at Skywood Recovery
At Skywood Recovery, we provide Michigan residents with comprehensive mental health treatment programs in a discreet facility that promotes true healing. You will work directly with an experienced therapist in group and private therapy sessions. In the environment, you’ll work to uncover the root cause behind the abuse. Then, you’ll develop new coping skills for managing your symptoms.
Is trazodone addictive? To learn all about trazodone and how it can benefit your mental health, call [Direct[ today to speak with one of our caring staff.