Does trazodone cause nosebleeds? (+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 causes nosebleeds. We will also explore research studies on the use of trazodone and the occurrence of nosebleeds. Additionally, we will discuss the risk factors that may influence trazodone-induced nosebleeds as well as the management tips for it.
Does trazodone cause nosebleeds?
Yes, trazodone can cause nosebleeds. Research studies indicate that although trazodone may lead to nosebleeds, the incidence of this side effect is generally low and not frequently reported in individuals using antidepressant medications (3).
Trazodone is an antidepressant medication used for managing various health conditions such as depression, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorders, chronic pain, and fibromyalgia.
It is generally considered a safe medication with mild to moderate side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, headache, and dry mouth (1).
What does research suggest?
The reported cases of nosebleeds with trazodone are rare; however, various research studies have suggested the occurrence of this side effect with the medication (1,2).
According to the Food and Drug Administration, trazodone’s interference with serotonin levels is responsible for this side effect. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in regulating platelet function, contributing to the body’s ability to form blood clots when needed (3).
The alterations in serotonin concentration in platelets caused by trazodone may influence their clotting ability, potentially increasing the risk of nosebleeds.
What factors may influence trazodone-induced nosebleeds?
While nosebleeds are not common with trazodone, there are several factors that may increase the risk of trazodone-induced nosebleeds. These factors may vary from one patient to another, and the presence of these factors may increase the risk of experiencing various side effects of trazodone, including nosebleeds. These factors may include:
Concurrent use of medications: The concurrent use of medications with trazodone, such as anticlotting medications or certain antidepressants like citalopram, or that affect platelet function, or have potential interactions with trazodone may increase the risk of nosebleeds.
Underlying conditions: Using trazodone in individuals with certain underlying conditions such as chronic rhinitis or sinusitis, that may cause symptoms like persistent nasal irritation, inflammation, and dryness, increases the risk of nosebleeds.
Additionally, any minor injury, such as blowing the nose vigorously, can potentially increase the risk of nasal bleeding when using trazodone, as blood vessels may be more susceptible to damage.
Individual sensitivity: Individual sensitivity to trazodone may also play an important role in the occurrence of uncommon side effects, including epistaxis. Some individuals may be more sensitive to the side effects of trazodone, particularly those affecting mucous membranes inside the nose.
What to do if trazodone causes nosebleeds?
While nosebleeds are not frequently reported with trazodone, they may occur in some individuals. If you experience minor nosebleeds during the initial phase of treatment, it usually does not cause any serious issues.
However, if your symptoms persist and are affecting your quality of life, you should consult your healthcare provider as soon as possible. They will assess your condition and determine the cause of your symptoms.
If trazodone is responsible for the nosebleeds you’re experiencing, they may recommend changes to your treatment plan, such as a dosage adjustment of trazodone or complete discontinuation, based on the severity of your symptoms.
Your healthcare provider may prescribe you an alternative medication, such as bupropion or mirtazapine, which is less likely to cause severe nosebleeds, for treating the condition for which trazodone was prescribed.
How to manage trazodone-induced nosebleeds?
If you experience nosebleeds after taking trazodone with or without any underlying risk factor, consult your healthcare provider. They may recommend certain management tips to handle your nosebleeds such as:
- Keep your nasal passages moist with a nasal spray to prevent dryness and reduce the chances of nosebleeds.
- If a nosebleed happens, tilt your head slightly forward to avoid blood flowing down your throat.
- Pinch your nostrils together using your fingers, and breathe through your mouth.
- Identify and address triggers that contribute to nosebleeds, like using medications known to cause them or being exposed to tobacco smoke or alcohol.
If nosebleeds persist or become severe, your healthcare provider may consider alternative antidepressants that are less likely to cause this side effect, ensuring your treatment is effective and comfortable for you.
In my opinion, the bleeding-related side effects of trazodone, including epistaxis, are rare and not frequently reported in clinical settings. However, nosebleeds may occur in the presence of certain risk factors in individuals, and if it happens, they should promptly report it to their healthcare providers for timely management of these symptoms and to avoid any unwanted complications.
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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.-
Oleptro™ (trazodone hydrochloride) extended-release tablets. P T. 2011 Feb;36(2):2-18. PMID: 21431085; PMCID: PMC3059557. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3059557/
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