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What Are the Negative Side Effects of Trazodone?

Trazodone, available under the brand name Desyrel and in generic form, is an antidepressant medication that affects neurotransmitters in the brain. Mainly prescribed to treat depression, it also is prescribe as a sedative and to treat panic attacks, agoraphobia and cocaine withdrawal.

  1. Common Side Effects

    • In clinical studies with trazodone, as detailed by eMedTV, the most common side effects are drowsiness, dry mouth, dizziness and lightheadedness.

    Other Side Effects

    • Other side effects included blurred vision, confusion, constipation, fatigue, headache, low blood pressure, muscle pain, nausea, nervousness, sinus congestion, tremors and weight loss.

    Less Common Effects

    • Less common side effects included bad taste, diarrhea, difficulty concentrating, fainting, high blood pressure, increased perspiration, lack of coordination, ringing in the ears, shortness of breath and weight gain.

    Sexual Side Effects

    • Trazodone is linked with a condition called priapism, in which the penis or clitoris stays painfully erect for a long time. Rarely, this results in permanent impairment of erectile function.

    Warning

    • Trazodone carries a black box warning mandated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Children, teenagers and adults up to 24 years of age have an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior when taking trazodone. They should be observed for any changes in mood or behavior.

    Psychological Side Effects

    • Trazodone can cause additional psychological side effects such as agitation, anxiety, engaging in dangerous activity, euphoria, hallucinations, hostility and restlessness.

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