Can you take Effexor in the morning and Trazodone at night?

In this article, we will discuss the use of Effexor (Venlafaxine) in the morning and Desyrel (Trazodone) at night – both of which are antidepressants. We will also talk about the potential benefits and risks of this combination. 

Can you take Effexor in the morning and Trazodone at night?

Yes, you can take Effexor in the morning and Trazodone at night. Both Effexor and Trazodone are antidepressants. Effexor is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) and Trazodone is an atypical antidepressant (1,2). 

The combination of these meds can be prescribed to people who don’t respond well to Venlafaxine monotherapy, either because of the side effects or inadequate therapeutic response. 

However, the decision to take this combination can only be made by a licensed healthcare professional and the doses should be carefully adjusted. Additionally, this combination may not provide the desired therapeutic output in every other case. 

Some people may not respond well to it. This is why you should never start taking these meds without consulting your doctor first. 

Potential benefits of taking Effexor in the morning and Trazodone at night

Taking Effexor in the morning and Trazodone at night offers some potential benefits. Effexor, when taken in the morning, kicks in during the day to combat depression. 

It does this by regulating brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, which are key players in mood. Since Trazodone is also an antidepressant, taking these two meds on the same day can enhance the overall antidepressant effects. 

Furthermore, taking Effexor in the morning and Trazodone at night can help reverse Effexor-induced insomnia, as Effexor can increase energy levels in some people which can trigger sleep disturbances (3). 

A 2005 study looked at adding Trazodone for insomnia during a 4-week Venlafaxine – the active ingredient in Effexor – treatment for 50 depressed inpatients (4). 

The patients were divided into two groups: one received Trazodone alongside Venlafaxine, while the other didn’t. Those who received Trazodone saw improvement in insomnia (4). 

Potential risks of taking Effexor in the morning and Trazodone at night

Combining Effexor in the morning with Trazodone at night can pose some potential risks. 

Firstly, there’s the possibility of additive side effects, meaning that the individual may experience an increase in the side effects associated with each medication, such as dizziness, drowsiness, and dry mouth (1,2). 

Secondly, there’s a rare but serious concern called serotonin syndrome. This can occur if the levels of serotonin in the brain become too high, causing symptoms like confusion, agitation, rapid heart rate, and even fever (5). 

To minimize these risks, it’s crucial for a healthcare provider to carefully determine the dosages and closely monitor the individual when using this combination therapy.

How to ensure the safe and effective use of Effexor in the morning and Trazodone at night?

The following points are important to ensure the safe and effective use of Effexor in the morning and Trazodone at night (1,2):

• Take Effexor in the morning and Trazodone at night at the same times each day. This helps maintain a steady level of medication in your body.
• Try not to miss a dose. If you forget to take one of the medications, take it as soon as you remember, but if it’s close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double up.
• Stick to the dosages and schedule prescribed by your doctor. Do not change the timing or dosage without their guidance.
• Limit alcohol consumption as it can intensify the side effects of these medications, especially drowsiness
• Pay attention to any side effects you experience and report them to your doctor. This helps them adjust your treatment if needed.
• Be aware of the symptoms of serotonin syndrome, such as agitation, rapid heartbeat, or confusion, and seek medical attention if you experience them.

Remember, safe and effective use of medications is an important key to achieving the desired therapeutic outcome.

Conclusion 

In this article, we have discussed the use of Effexor (Venlafaxine) in the morning and Desyrel (Trazodone) at night. We have also discussed the potential benefits and risks of this combination, and some important points to ensure safe and effective use. 

References