Trazodone is a popular medication that is often prescribed for anxiety, depression, and sometimes even insomnia. This antidepressant medication is a serotonin receptor antagonist and reuptake inhibitor or SARI. This complicated drug works in the brain to improve serotonin transmission and block histamine receptors. The increase in serotonin helps improve mood to treat anxiety while blocking histamine causes drowsiness which helps treat insomnia.
Many people who have been prescribed this drug want to know, “Can you take trazodone with alcohol?” This is a reasonable question since many people are social drinkers, especially around the holidays. Understanding how alcohol affects certain medications you may be taking is a safe approach to your health.
Some medications warn against operating heavy machinery or driving a car after consumption while others warn against the dangers of consuming alcohol. Each medication is different, and some medicines require special precautions. Here’s what you need to know about taking Trazadone with alcohol.
How Trazadone and Alcohol Work Independently
To answer the question, “Can you take Trazadone with alcohol?” it is important to understand how they each work independently. Many medications can present a hazard when mixed with alcohol.
Trazadone is an antidepressant medication that works deep within the complexities of the brain. Not only does it increase serotonin levels to regulate mood and behavior, but Trazadone also has a sedative effect because it is used to treat insomnia. It works by regulating neurotransmitters in the brain while reducing the amount of dopamine released.
Alcohol, on the other hand, increases the release of dopamine. The additional dopamine is part of what makes drinking alcohol a pleasurable experience, but alcohol simultaneously depresses the central nervous system. Serotonin levels are initially increased but prolonged alcohol use can result in reduced serotonin levels paving the way for depression and anxiety.
Mixing Trazadone with Alcohol
Trazadone and alcohol are a dangerous combination because both substances depress the respiratory system. When combined, they can lead to respiratory failure with fatal results. Since both Trazadone and alcohol have a sedative effect, they diminish cognitive function and motor skill coordination. This increases risk taking behavior potentially leading to serious accidents and injuries.
While Trazadone is typically used to treat depression, combining it with alcohol can actually worsen the condition. Conditions of depression and anxiety tend to deteriorate when a patient being treated with Trazadone consumes alcohol. Combining alcohol with Trazadone can also damage the liver over time. This organ filters toxins from the body but can easily become overwhelmed when flooded with alcohol and medication leading to serious complications.
Exercise Caution
If you’ve been wondering,” Can you take Trazadone with alcohol?” the answer is absolutely not. Combining alcohol with Trazadone can have potentially fatal consequences and should be avoided at all costs. Trazadone is an antidepressant that should be taken under the strict guidance of an experienced healthcare provider. If you are being prescribed Trazadone for depression, anxiety, or insomnia, you should not consume alcohol. Take it only as prescribed and consult your healthcare provider if you experience any negative side effects. If you or someone you love has become addicted to the antidepressant Trazadone, then you should seek professional help immediately. Trazadone addiction can be dangerous and may require professional help.
Lewis Gordon
Lewis Gordon is a successful businessman living in Boston, Massachusetts. When he’s not working, he enjoys travelling – especially tasting other cuisines, scuba diving, watching and playing soccer. Lewis also has a love of dogs and is the proud owner of an English Setter.
