Trazodone and Alcohol: Interactions, Effects & Risks

Although trazodone is a common antidepressant, combining trazodone and alcohol can increase your risk of side effects and overdose.

Trazodone is one of the most common antidepressants in the U.S., used by more than five million Americans annually. It is a versatile drug that treats several medical and mental health conditions. Alcohol is also a commonly used substance. However, combining trazodone and alcohol can be dangerous and may put your health at risk. For this reason, it is important to be aware of the dangers of drinking while taking trazodone.

What Is Trazodone? 

Trazodone is an antidepressant. It is only available as a generic drug in the U.S. but was previously sold under brand names like Oleptro. It is often prescribed to treat conditions like:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Insomnia
• As an add-on drug in alcohol withdrawal syndrome

Experts think the drug works by preventing the breakdown of the neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain. In addition, experts believe the drug’s sedating properties come from its ability to block alpha-1 and histamine receptors.

Can You Take Trazodone With Alcohol?

You should avoid drinking while taking trazodone. This is because both trazodone and alcohol are central nervous system depressants, slowing down the activity of your brain. Taking them together can cause additive effects, increasing the likelihood of adverse reactions, which can be serious and even fatal in some cases. 

Side Effects of Mixing Trazodone With Alcohol

Because trazodone and alcohol are central nervous system depressants, taking them together can have additive effects. These include:

• Dizziness
• Sleepiness
• Confusion
• Concentration problems
• Impaired thinking
• Poor judgment
• Impaired coordination

In serious cases, drinking while taking trazodone can even be deadly.

Is Death Possible From Trazodone and Alcohol? 

Deaths have been reported in people who have combined trazodone and alcohol. The specific mechanism by which the combination can be deadly is unknown; however, it should be noted that trazodone and alcohol are central nervous system depressants. Although trazodone overdoses are rare, they can cause potentially fatal effects, including:

• Heart rhythm problems
• Slowed or stopped breathing
• Coma

Trazodone for Alcohol Withdrawal

Some doctors may prescribe trazodone for insomnia, a common symptom of alcohol withdrawal syndrome. However, trazodone is not specifically recommended for this purpose in the alcohol withdrawal guidelines by either the World Health Organization (WHO) or the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM).

Get Help for Alcohol Addiction

If you struggle to quit drinking even though it increases your risk of side effects on trazodone, this can be a sign of alcohol addiction. Fortunately, The Recovery Village Ridgefield can help. At our detox center, we can help wean you off alcohol safely. Our rehab offerings also help teach you the skills for long-term sobriety. Don’t wait: contact a Recovery Advocate today to learn more.