Does Trazodone cause constipation? (+3 factors)
By
Ivan Kahwa
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
In this article, we will discuss whether Trazodone can cause constipation. We will also discuss some research studies and what one should do if this side effect occurs.
Does Trazodone cause constipation?
Yes, Trazodone can cause constipation. It is one of the listed side effects of this antidepressant and some people have reported it.
If you are experiencing difficulty passing stools or have infrequent bowel movements which are less than normal it indicates constipation. Experiencing this while taking Trazodone is normal and it is called secondary constipation as it is caused by medications.
However, it is essential to note that its incidence can vary from person to person and not everyone who takes Trazodone will experience this side effect. If you do experience constipation while taking Trazodone, it is essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider.
Your healthcare provider can help you manage this side effect and may suggest lifestyle changes to alleviate constipation while ensuring that your treatment plan for your mental health condition remains effective.
What does research suggest?
Research suggests that Trazodone can indeed lead to constipation in some individuals, although the exact incidence can vary. The exact mechanism behind this effect is not fully understood.
One potential explanation is related to Trazodone’s effect on certain neurotransmitters in the brain like serotonin. These neurotransmitters play a role in regulating various bodily functions, including the gastrointestinal tract (1).
Alteration in these systems might contribute to constipation for some individuals. This is why other antidepressants like Mirtazapine, Wellbutrin, Pristiq etc are also associated with this side effect.
One study indicated that Trazodone can treat insomnia in patients better than Quetiapine but patients prescribed Trazodone experienced a higher occurrence of side effects like constipation, nausea and diarrhoea compared to those receiving Quetiapine (2).
It is essential to keep in mind that not everyone who takes Trazodone will experience constipation. People’s bodies react differently to medications, and while constipation is a known side effect, many people tolerate the drug without this issue.
What are the factors influencing Trazodone-induced constipation?
Several factors can increase the risk of experiencing constipation as a side effect of Trazodone (3):
Dehydration
Drinking less water can lead to dehydration. It can affect the overall functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Adequate hydration is essential for maintaining healthy bowel movements. If you are not drinking enough water, the risk of constipation is increased.
Physical inactivity
A lack of physical activity can hinder the digestive process, potentially slowing down bowel movements. Engaging in regular exercise helps activate intestinal muscles, supporting a more consistent and healthy digestive rhythm. If you are mostly sedentary, it could lead to constipation issues.
Poor diet
Insufficient fibre intake in one’s diet can increase the chances of experiencing constipation. Fibre plays a crucial role in regulating bowel movements by increasing stool volume and aiding its smooth passage through the intestine. If your diet lacks fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and other high-fibre food, you could face an increased risk of constipation.
Underlying health conditions
Certain medical conditions can make individuals susceptible to experiencing constipation like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), hypothyroidism, diabetes, and some neurological disorders. If you have any of these conditions, your risk of experiencing constipation with medications like Trazodone may be higher.
Higher dosage
Individuals are more likely to experience constipation if they are taking Trazodone in a higher dose. As the side effects of Trazodone are dose-dependent, a higher dose increases the risk of constipation.
How to manage Trazodone-induced constipation?
If you experience constipation while taking Trazodone, there are several steps you can take.
Communicate with your healthcare provider: If constipation persists or becomes bothersome, discuss it with your healthcare provider. They may reduce the dosage to see if it helps. If dosage reduction is not helpful, they may gradually discontinue your medication or switch you to another antidepressant with fewer side effects.
Always remember not to discontinue the antidepressant on your own as it can cause horrible withdrawal symptoms (4).
Physical activity: Regular exercise or physical activity can help stimulate bowel movements and alleviate constipation. Do moderate exercise at least three days a week.
Over-the-counter remedies: Talk to your pharmacist or healthcare provider about options such as fibre supplements or mild laxatives that may help relieve constipation.
Increase fibre intake: Increase the consumption of fruits and vegetables. They are rich in fibre and fibre increases the bulk of the stool and helps with constipation.
Hydration: Drink adequate water throughout the day to maintain hydration. Sufficient hydration can help soften stools and facilitate bowel movements.
In my view, constipation is a frequently reported side effect of Trazodone which goes away as your body adjusts to the medication. Factors like dosage, poor lifestyle and medical conditions increase the likelihood of constipation while taking Trazodone.
Laxatives, improvement in lifestyle and open communication with healthcare providers are important to manage Trazodone-induced constipation.
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References
2.-
Doroudgar S, Chou TI, Yu J, Trinh K, Pal J, Perry PJ. Evaluation of trazodone and quetiapine for insomnia: an observational study in psychiatric inpatients. Prim Care Companion CNS Disord. 2013;15(6):PCC.13m01558. doi: 10.4088/PCC.13m01558. Epub 2013 Nov 7. PMID: 24800124; PMCID: PMC3977773.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24800124/
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