Trazodone is not always a safe sleep aid. For some individuals, a history of addiction or substance abuse suggests that it is not a safe medication for sleep. Individual factors influence whether the drug is truly considered safe.
Trazodone treats insomnia because of its sedative effects. These effects can be overthrown by tolerance, which may increase the risk of addiction. Additionally, severe side effects, including serotonin syndrome can occur when it’s not taken as prescribed.
By taking Trazodone, serotonin levels rise, and symptoms are managed. This is why medical providers often prescribe Trazodone to treat depression and anxiety. Trazodone’s sedative effects make it an effective sleep aid for those dealing with insomnia. For more information on trazodone for sleep, continue reading.
A Serotonin Modulator
Trazodone alters the levels of serotonin in the brain because that is its role as a serotonin modulator. Serotonin influences everything from mood regulation to sleep. Providers consider this medication to treat insomnia because of this.
Taking trazodone for sleep
The sedative effects are linked to the drug’s function as an antagonist to specific serotine receptors like 5-HT2A receptor. When the medication blocks this receptor, drowsiness occurs, improving sleep for the user. Trazodone is only a safe sleep aid when taken as directed.
Trazodone is an “as-needed” medication, meaning it should only be taken infrequently. Taking trazodone for sleep is not a long-term strategy for sleep disorders. Your medical provider will determine the correct dosage to treat insomnia. Taken as prescribed, trazodone for sleep is considered a safe and effective remedy for insomnia and some other sleep disorders.
Dangers Of Taking This Controversial Drug
The body can establish tolerance to trazodone for sleep, which may lead those with addictive tendencies to substance abuse in order to achieve the same effects. Withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety, agitation, nausea, and insomnia, may also occur. If addiction is a concern, the patient may need professional detox care. At a trusted detox recovery center, the user tapers off the drug under the care and supervision of a medical provider. It may be necessary for the patient to detox safely at a detox center with 24/7 medical care.
Note: Mixing the drug with specific medications such as Lexapro is dangerous.
Abusing this controversial medication can result in symptoms such as:
- impaired coordination
- respiratory depression
- reduced quality of life (loss of interest in activities, work, etc.)
Some individuals may also lose interest in personal relationships and activities they once enjoyed. Talk to your doctor about trazodone for sleep to determine if any medications you’re taking may not mix well with trazodone.
Asking Your Doctor About The Sleep Aids That’ll Work For You
A safe sleep aid is one that does not disrupt an individual’s homeostasis and is an approved strategy prescribed by one’s medical provider. If you battle addiction or substance abuse, trazodone for sleep may not be suitable for you. Talk with your medical provider to discuss possible medication options to treat your insomnia, such as natural sleep aids that are non-habit forming.
