Does Trazodone Affect Bone Density? (+3 Factors)

By Ivan Kahwa

Page last updated: 02/02/2024 | Next review date: 02/02/2026

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 can affect bone density. We will also discuss some research studies and what one should do if this side effect occurs.

Does Trazodone affect bone density?

Trazodone can affect bone density. It is a listed side effect, however, the incidence is low.

Bone density is the amount of certain minerals such as calcium etc in the bone which provides strength to the bones.

Trazodone, an antidepressant, disrupts bone formation by causing an imbalance between bone breakup and bone build-up (1). This can lead to conditions like osteoporosis, osteoarthritis, and fractures, etc. Generally high doses of Trazodone affect bone density.

It is important to note that this side effect occurs in specific individuals and not everyone who takes his medication experiences it. If you experience bone pain or any related issue while taking Trazodone, reach out to your healthcare provider.

What does research suggest?

There is limited research indicating the association between Trazodone and bone density. However antidepressants, in general, can cause this side effect.

A comprehensive review that examined the impact of antidepressants on bone health indicated that these medications could potentially reduce bone mineral density (BMD) and increase the risk of fractures. This study also noted that the use of antidepressants in patients with risk factors like osteoporosis, history of osteoporosis, ageing, smoking and weight could influence the occurrence of bone loss (3).

One study indicated that antidepressant use can lead to osteoporosis and also affect the process of bone repair and regeneration (2).

It is important to note that every individual has a different genetic makeup and their responses to medications are different. It is important to reach out to your doctor if you find any bone-related issues while using Trazodone.

What factors affect bone density while taking Trazodone?

Several factors can contribute to bone health issues while taking Trazodone or other antidepressants like Sertraline, Citalopram etc. These include:

Ageing presents a significant risk for bone density. As individuals age, their bone mineral density decreases, leading to conditions like osteoporosis and an elevated risk of fractures and falls. This is commonly seen in aged women.
A family history of osteoporosis and bone fractures can increase the likelihood of affecting bone density.
Caucasians and Asians are at a higher risk of developing bone density issues.
Individuals with a low body mass index (BMI) will have increased chances of suffering from bone density issues.
Higher doses of medication may also increase the likelihood of experiencing low bone density.
Certain medical conditions such as thyroid disorders and inflammatory bowel disease can elevate the risk of low bone density.
Inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake and poor nutrition can increase the likelihood of affecting bone density.
Sedentary living, smoking, alcohol consumption and substance abuse may heighten the risk of bone issues.
Taking medications that affect bone mineral density such as corticoids alongside Trazodone increases the likelihood of bone loss.
Hormonal imbalances such as those associated with menopause can lead to bone issues.

What to do if Trazodone is affecting your bones?

If you are on treatment with Trazodone and have concerns regarding its potential effects on your bones, you should do the following:

Consult your healthcare provider

Before starting treatment with Trazodone, it is advisable to consider a DEXA scan (a bone mineral density test). This assessment will help determine whether you already have a bone disorder or if you are at risk of developing one while taking Trazodone.

While taking this medication, maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider is essential. you should discuss any concerns and side effects with your doctor. they may assess your condition and adjust your dosage accordingly. They may gradually discontinue your medication or consider an alternative treatment if necessary.

Always remember not to make any changes to your treatment plan without medical assistance. Abrupt discontinuation of the medication can cause horrible withdrawal symptoms (4).

Medication considerations

Your doctor may prescribe over-the-counter (OTC) supplements and medications such as vitamin D supplements, and bisphosphonates like alendronic acid to prevent and treat bone issues (5).

Your doctor may prescribe some other antidepressant such as Bupropion, Venlafaxine etc to mitigate this side effect.

Lifestyle modification

Implementing a healthy lifestyle is crucial for promoting bone health. Engaging in weight-bearing exercises like strength training promotes bone health.

Include minerals and calcium-rich food in your diet, such as dairy products, leafy green vegetables and fortified food to promote bone health.

To enhance calcium absorption and consequently bone health you should spend time in the sun and consider taking vitamin D supplements. Avoid alcohol and substance abuse to prevent bone loss.

In my view and the knowledge available, Trazodone is associated with affecting bone density. However, individual responses vary and certain factors such as age and higher dosage may influence this side effect.

If you have concerns regarding bone issues while taking Trazodone, reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and treatment plans.