Does trazodone cause irritability? (+5 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
This article will explore trazodone-induced irritability and other side effects linked to trazodone use. Additionally, we will delve into key considerations that should be observed if trazodone leads to irritability.
Does trazodone cause irritability?
Yes, trazodone may cause irritability, especially in individuals who are new to trazodone or other antidepressants. While trazodone is primarily designed to stabilize and elevate mood, reducing symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, fibromyalgia, and other mood disorders, it’s essential to be aware that irritability can be a potential side effect.
During the initial phases of therapy, individuals may encounter fluctuations in their mood and emotional well-being due to the introduction of trazodone. This period can be characterized by heightened irritability for some users. However, as treatment progresses, trazodone typically becomes more effective in stabilizing mood (1).
It is important to note that, this side effect may not occur in all the individuals who take this medication.
What does research suggest?
According to research studies, although antidepressant medications are used to alleviate symptoms such as irritability, they may sometimes cause anxiety and its associated symptoms, including irritability and agitation, especially during the initial phases of treatment (2).
Additionally, trazodone may also cause serotonin syndrome in high doses or during the initial days of treatment, which can be manifested by increased restlessness, anxiety, and irritability (3).
What factors may increase the risk of trazodone-induced irritability?
While irritability is uncommon with trazodone use, there are several factors that may increase the risk of irritability with this medication. These factors may include:
| Factors | Effects |
| Dosage | Higher trazodone dosages may be associated with an increased risk of side effects, including irritability. Healthcare providers carefully consider the optimal dosage for each individual, balancing the need for therapeutic effects with the potential for side effects. |
| Initial phase of treatment | The initial phase of trazodone treatment can be a period of adjustment for the body. During this time, individuals may experience variations in mood, including irritability, as the medication takes effect. This phase is generally temporary, and as the body adapts, side effects often diminish. |
| Concurrent medications | Concurrent use of other medications, particularly antidepressants or antipsychotics, can influence the risk of irritability. Interactions between medications can affect an individual’s mood and overall well-being. |
| Medical conditions | Individuals with underlying medical conditions such as depression, anxiety, or mood swings may be more susceptible to mood-related side effects, including irritability. Trazodone is often prescribed to address these conditions, but individual responses can vary. |
| Individual sensitivity | Each person’s response to medication is unique. Some individuals may be more sensitive to the effects of trazodone, including the potential for irritability. Factors such as genetics, and overall health can contribute to individual variability in drug response. |
What to do if trazodone causes irritability?
Symptoms like irritability, aggression, and agitation are common during the initial phases of treatment and may subside as the body adjusts to the medication.
However, if you experience persistent and severe irritability or any mood disturbances even after using trazodone for 3 to 4 weeks, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will assess your condition and determine the cause of your symptoms.
In some cases, the overdose of trazodone may lead to serotonin syndrome, which is accompanied by various symptoms, including irritability. If such a situation arises, your healthcare provider may suggest adjusting the trazodone dosage or exploring alternative medications that have fewer mood-related side effects.
It is crucial not to make any changes to your prescription or stop taking trazodone on your own. Abrupt discontinuation of trazodone can lead to withdrawal effects that are even more challenging to manage.
Keeping track of your mood and irritability over time and reporting them to your healthcare provider during follow-up appointments is essential.
How to manage trazodone-induced irritability?
Irritability with trazodone usually subsides on its own after a few weeks of treatment and often does not require pharmacological interventions. However, if severe irritability persists, your healthcare provider may offer management tips for addressing your irritability. These may include:
- Consideration of behavioral therapies that are designed to assist individuals in managing and decreasing impulsive behaviors, helping them learn to manage emotions and address the underlying causes of irritation.
- Implementation of stress-reduction techniques, including mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation exercises. These practices can be valuable in mitigating irritability that may occur during trazodone therapy.
- Making changes in one’s daily life, such as reducing or eliminating factors that contribute to aggression, like alcohol or substance use. Lifestyle modifications can play a crucial role in managing irritability and improving overall well-being.
In my opinion, it is common to experience irritability, irritation, and aggression during the initial phases of treatment with antidepressant medication. However, these symptoms usually subside as the patient adjusts to the medication, and there is generally no need for any further intervention to manage these symptoms.
However, if your symptoms persist even after weeks of treatment, you should consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment.
Was this helpful?
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.-
Harada T, Inada K, Yamada K, Sakamoto K, Ishigooka J. A prospective naturalistic study of antidepressant-induced jitteriness/anxiety syndrome. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2014 Nov 10;10:2115-21. doi: 10.2147/NDT.S70637. PMID: 25419134; PMCID: PMC4235204. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25419134/
3.-
Foong AL, Grindrod KA, Patel T, Kellar J. Demystifying serotonin syndrome (or serotonin toxicity). Can Fam Physician. 2018 Oct;64(10):720-727. PMID: 30315014; PMCID: PMC6184959. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6184959/
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