Trazodone is a medication prescribed for major depressive disorder, insomnia, and anxiety due to its sedative properties. Taking more than the prescribed amount of Trazodone can lead to an overdose. Understanding the risks and how to respond is important.
Recognizing Trazodone Overdose Symptoms
Trazodone overdose symptoms can vary in severity, affecting multiple body systems. Initial signs may include extreme drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
As an overdose progresses, more severe symptoms can emerge, impacting the central nervous system, cardiovascular system, and respiratory system. Individuals might experience confusion, blurred vision, rapid or irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, chest pain, and cardiac arrhythmias.
Neurological effects can include seizures, tremors, and a lack of coordination. In severe cases, respiratory depression, characterized by shallow or stopped breathing, can occur, particularly when Trazodone is combined with other central nervous system depressants.
A rare but serious symptom unique to Trazodone overdose is priapism, a prolonged and painful erection that requires immediate medical attention. Overdosing on Trazodone can also increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a life-threatening condition from excessive serotonin accumulation, causing symptoms like agitation, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, and fever.
Factors Influencing Overdose Severity
Overdose severity is influenced by factors beyond the amount ingested, including other substances, overall health, age, and metabolism.
Combining Trazodone with alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other central nervous system depressants amplifies sedative effects, leading to extreme drowsiness, impaired coordination, and respiratory depression. Herbal supplements like St. John’s Wort or other antidepressants that increase serotonin levels can heighten the risk of serotonin syndrome when taken with Trazodone.
Pre-existing health conditions also affect overdose severity. Heart or liver conditions can complicate the body’s ability to process and eliminate the medication, increasing toxic effects.
Age is a factor, with older adults more susceptible to side effects like low blood sodium levels. Biological and genetic factors, including metabolism, can further influence how the body handles the drug and the impact of an overdose.
Immediate Actions for Suspected Overdose
Recognizing a suspected Trazodone overdose requires immediate action. Call emergency services (e.g., 911) or Poison Control (1-800-222-1222). Quick response allows medical professionals to provide necessary interventions.
While waiting for help, remain with the person and monitor their condition. Try to keep them awake and talking if conscious. Gather information for responders, including what was taken, how much, and when. This helps medical personnel determine treatment.
Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by medical professionals, as this can lead to choking or aspiration. Avoid giving the person anything to eat or drink. Focus on getting professional medical attention quickly and providing accurate details.
Preventing Trazodone Overdose
Preventing Trazodone overdose involves responsible medication practices and open communication with healthcare providers. Always take Trazodone exactly as prescribed, without increasing dosage or frequency. Adhering to prescribed dosages is fundamental to avoiding overdose.
Store Trazodone safely in its original container, tightly sealed, and out of reach of children and pets. A cool, dry place, away from direct light and moisture, is ideal.
Avoid combining Trazodone with alcohol or other negatively interacting substances. Alcohol amplifies Trazodone’s sedative effects, increasing the risk of overdose, respiratory depression, and death. Inform healthcare providers about all medications, supplements, and herbal products, as many drugs interact with Trazodone and increase the risk of adverse effects, including serotonin syndrome.