Does trazodone cause hiccups? (+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 explore whether trazodone can cause hiccups. We will delve into research studies examining the association between the use of trazodone and hiccups. Additionally, we will discuss the risk factors that may increase the likelihood of hiccups with trazodone and the management of hiccups if they occur
Does trazodone cause hiccups?
No, trazodone does not cause hiccups. There is no research available that has reported that trazodone may lead to hiccups. However, it’s important to note that hiccups may occur in some patients receiving trazodone due to the presence of an underlying risk factor, such as concomitant medication or a medical condition.
Trazodone is an antidepressant medication generally used in the management of various conditions, including depression, anxiety, fibromyalgia, and chronic pain. Although it does not commonly cause hiccups, the reported side effects of this medication may include dizziness, nausea, fatigue, headaches, and dry mouth (1).
What does research suggest?
Trazodone exhibits a favorable adverse effect profile, marked by its excellent tolerability. This positions it as an excellent choice, particularly for individuals who may struggle with the side effects commonly linked to other antidepressants (TCAs) (2).
Presently, there is no established evidence linking trazodone to hiccups. This implies that, based on available research and clinical data, trazodone is not commonly associated with such an effect (1).
Nevertheless, individual responses to medication can vary, underscoring the importance for individuals taking trazodone or contemplating it as a treatment option to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with their healthcare providers.
What factors may increase the risk of hiccups while taking trazodone?
Hiccups are not a commonly reported side effect associated with trazodone use. However, several general factors may contribute to hiccups in individuals, and these factors may not necessarily be directly linked to trazodone use. Some of these contributing factors include:
Concurrent Medication Use: The simultaneous use of medications like corticosteroids, antipsychotics, and benzodiazepines alongside trazodone may induce hiccups. It’s important to note that these hiccups may not be directly related to trazodone itself, but they can occur during the course of treatment (4).
Medical Conditions: Individuals with certain underlying medical health conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), stroke, a history of brain injury, or meningitis, are at a higher risk of experiencing distressing and continuous hiccups. When trazodone is used in patients with these conditions, hiccups may be reported, but they may not necessarily be attributed to trazodone itself.
Individual sensitivity: Some individuals may be more sensitive to certain medications including trazodone or may have idiosyncratic reactions, leading to certain side effects such as hiccups.
What to do if hiccups occur while taking trazodone?
While trazodone is not typically associated with causing hiccups, if you find yourself experiencing persistent and distressing hiccups while using trazodone, it’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider.
During the appointment, your healthcare provider will evaluate your overall health and medical history to understand if the hiccups may be linked to trazodone usage. They will review your current medications, including trazodone, to assess any potential contributors to this side effect.
If any risk factors are identified as the cause of your hiccups, your healthcare provider will address them first. This may involve adjusting the dosage, considering an alternative medication, or addressing any underlying issues that could be interacting with trazodone and leading to side effects such as hiccups.
How to manage hiccups while taking trazodone?
Hiccups are usually self-limiting and may subside on their own after some time. However, if you experience persistent hiccups that affect your quality of life, your healthcare provider may recommend some management tips and medications in severe cases. These management tips may include:
- Practice slow and deep breathing exercises to calm the diaphragm.
- Inhale deeply, repeat and hold your breath for intervals to interrupt the hiccup reflex.
- Using a tablespoon of honey or cold water gargling may be effective for some individuals.
- Identify and avoid triggers such as certain medications, spicy foods, or alcohol.
- In severe cases, medications such as chlorpromazine or metoclopramide may be provided to relieve symptoms (3).
In my opinion, trazodone generally does not cause hiccups, and even if they occur during the treatment with this medication, they usually do not require medical intervention. However, in cases where persistent and distressing hiccups occur, seeking medical help is advisable to ensure the safety and efficacy of your treatment.
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References
1.-
Shin JJ, Saadabadi A. Trazodone. [Updated 2022 Jul 10]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470560/
2.-
Rakel RE. The greater safety of trazodone over tricyclic antidepressant agents: 5-year experience in the United States. Psychopathology. 1987;20 Suppl 1:57-63. doi: 10.1159/000284524. PMID: 3321131. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3321131/
3.-
Rakel RE. The greater safety of trazodone over tricyclic antidepressant agents: 5-year experience in the United States. Psychopathology. 1987;20 Suppl 1:57-63. doi: 10.1159/000284524. PMID: 3321131. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3321131/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35732020/
4.-
Thompson DF, Landry JP. Drug-induced hiccups. Ann Pharmacother. 1997 Mar;31(3):367-9. doi: 10.1177/106002809703100318. PMID: 9066948. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9066948/
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