Can trazodone and gabapentin be taken together? (5 benefits)

By Ivan Kahwa
Page last updated: 30/01/2024 | Next review date: 30/01/2026
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Author bio

 

Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.

Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:

Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the  Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Professional Experience:

Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.

With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.

Education:

2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Publications:

▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7 

▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60 

▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.

https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683 

▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.

  https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004 

▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.

https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2 

▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.

https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600 

Published book Chapter

▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.

 https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4 

Submitted manuscripts Under Review:

▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience

▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine

▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology

Submitted book chapters under review

1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4:  Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6:  Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher:  Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.

2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors:  Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala  , Rachel Mbabazi  , Shabnoor Iqbal  , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press

 

You can view my works on the following professional sites:

 

Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa

 

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en

ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437

Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159 

 

 

 

 


Ivan Kahwa
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In this article, we will discuss whether trazodone and gabapentin can be taken together. Furthermore, we will talk about the related research studies, their benefits, risks, how to ensure the safe use of trazodone and gabapentin combination, and what to do if this combination does not help you. 

Can trazodone and gabapentin be taken together?

Trazodone and gabapentin can be taken together. The combination of trazodone and gabapentin can be used to treat pain but they may also exert some adverse effects. Trazodone is an antidepressant and gabapentin is an anticonvulsant.

Trazodone is approved by the FDA to treat major depressive disorder. Trazodone works by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and also blocks histamine and adrenergic receptors. Trazodone may also be used to treat anxiety, fibromyalgia, and sleep disorders (1). 

Gabapentin, on the other hand, is an anticonvulsant that is used to treat various conditions such as seizures, hot flashes during menopause, and restless legs syndrome. You should swallow the extended-release tablets of gabapentin as a whole and should not cut or chew them (2). 

What does research suggest?

According to a research study, trazodone and gabapentin are used in combination to treat painful conditions such as diabetic neuropathy. In this study, low doses of trazodone and gabapentin were used to check their response to pain management.

It was found that both medications helped patients to feel much better even at lower doses (3). Another research study also suggested that when trazodone and gabapentin are used, they are not enough for treating pain.

These medications were found to be effective when used in combination. No significant side effects were observed during the combination treatment of trazodone and gabapentin. Therefore, this combination is considered a long-term treatment of painful diabetic neuropathy (4). 

What are the benefits of trazodone and gabapentin combination?

The benefits of trazodone and gabapentin combination may include: 

  • Enhanced efficacy of both medications in reducing pain in low doses.
  • By reducing the pain, these two medications when used in combination may also improve overall well-being and quality of life which is affected by pain. 
  • Low doses of trazodone and gabapentin are effective in combination, therefore decreasing the risk of side effects. 
  • The effect on neurotransmitters by trazodone and gabapentin in combination may affect different aspects of neuropathic pain. 
  • In cases where a single drug does not help neuropathic pain, combination therapy of trazodone and gabapentin may be more effective (4). 

What are the risks of trazodone and gabapentin combination?

The risks or side effects of trazodone and gabapentin combination may include:

  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhoea (common with gabapentin) or constipation
  • Dry mouth
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue
  • Weight changes
  • Muscle or joint pain

If you experience any of the above-mentioned side effects, and they become bothersome, please reach out to your healthcare provider. 

How to ensure safe use of trazodone and gabapentin combination?

To ensure the safe use of trazodone and gabapentin combination, please adhere to the following guidelines:

  • You should not take trazodone or gabapentin if you are allergic to any of these medications or their ingredients. 
  • Make sure your doctor knows about the medicines or supplements you are taking. 
  • Tell your doctor if you have any family history or other medical conditions. 
  • The combination of trazodone and gabapentin may cause excessive drowsiness, therefore, you should avoid driving or other tasks that require concentration. 
  • You should not consume alcohol while using combination therapy of trazodone and gabapentin, as alcohol may worsen the drowsiness. 
  • Swallow gabapentin and trazodone tablets as a whole; however, you may cut trazodone in half at the score line. 
  • If you skip any dose of gabapentin or trazodone, please take it as soon as you remember it; however, if the time of the next scheduled dose is near, then take it as scheduled and avoid taking an extra dose (5,6). 

How to manage the ineffectiveness of trazodone and gabapentin combination?

To manage the ineffectiveness of trazodone and gabapentin combination for your condition, please reach out to your healthcare provider. They may evaluate your current condition, family or medical history, and response to the combination treatment. 

Your healthcare provider may increase the dose of trazodone and gabapentin given in combination and monitor your response afterwards. Increasing the dose of this combination treatment may have some side effects, or it might not be suitable for you, then your doctor may prescribe you other antidepressants and anticonvulsants.

In my opinion, trazodone and gabapentin may be used together to treat neuropathic pains. However, this combination has benefits and risks associated with its use. If you experience any side effects or this combination does not help your condition, please inform your healthcare provider to take necessary actions. 

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Thanks for your feedback!

References

1.-

Shin JJ, Saadabadi A. Trazodone. 2022 Jul 10. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 29262060. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29262060/

2.-

Yasaei R, Katta S, Saadabadi A. Gabapentin. 2022 Dec 19. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 29630280. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29630280/

3.-

Lipone P, Ehler E, Nastaj M, Palka-Kisielowska I, Cruccu G, Truini A, Di Loreto G, Del Vecchio A, Pochiero I, Comandini A, Calisti F, Cattaneo A. Efficacy and Safety of Low Doses of Trazodone in Patients Affected by Painful Diabetic Neuropathy and Treated with Gabapentin: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study. CNS Drugs. 2020 Nov;34(11):1177-1189. doi: 10.1007/s40263-020-00760-2. PMID: 32936427; PMCID: PMC7658082. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32936427/

4.-

Garrone B, di Matteo A, Amato A, Pistillo L, Durando L, Milanese C, Di Giorgio FP, Tongiani S. Synergistic interaction between trazodone and gabapentin in rodent models of neuropathic pain. PLoS One. 2021 Jan 4;16(1):e0244649. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0244649. PMID: 33395416; PMCID: PMC7781482. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7781482/

5.-

Gabapentin-MedlinePlus [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); [Last Revised – 05/15/2020]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a694007.html

6.-

Trazodone-MedlinePlus [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); [Last Revised – 01/15/2022]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a681038.html

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