Does Trazodone Cause Paranoia? (+ 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 cause paranoia. We will also discuss the factors contributing to this effect and what one should do if this side effect occurs.

Does Trazodone cause paranoia?

Yes, Trazodone can cause paranoia. While Trazodone can have side effects including changes in mood and mental state, paranoia is not a commonly reported side effect associated with its use.

Antidepressants like Trazodone work by increasing the levels of certain neurotransmitters in the brain such as serotonin (1). This can lead to an increase in anxiety or paranoia in some individuals.

Paranoia may occur shortly after starting the treatment with Trazodone or even after being on medication for a while and may subside as your body gets used to the medication (2).

It is important to note that not everyone will experience paranoia as a side effect, and individual factors may influence its occurrence. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns or experience paranoia while taking Trazodone or any other antidepressant like Sertraline, Citalopram, Effexor etc.

How does Trazodone cause paranoia?

Trazodone may potentially cause psychosis symptoms like paranoia in some individuals, especially those with complicated depressive disorders. While the exact mechanisms behind this are not fully understood, one possible mechanism is the activation of the 5HT3 receptor which can lead to an increase in dopamine release (3)

The increase in dopamine, especially in the prefrontal cortex, might play a role in the development of psychotic symptoms, especially paranoia. The exact relationship between Trazodone and paranoia is still being studied, but it is believed that the increased dopamine levels may be a contributing factor to the emergence of these symptoms.

Like other antidepressants, such as Sertraline, Citalopram, etc, Trazodone can also help people with paranoia associated with depression (5).

What factors influence Trazodone-induced paranoia?

It is essential to understand the potential factors that may contribute to an increased risk of experiencing paranoid symptoms while taking Trazodone. These factors include:

Dosage and duration

The dosage of a medication directly influences its effects. Higher doses can affect neurochemical balance and exacerbate side effects, including paranoia. Jumping to high doses of Trazodone without a gradual dose escalation may also contribute to an increased risk of experiencing paranoid symptoms.

Side effects may evolve over time as the body adjusts to the medication. Initially, some side effects might be more pronounced and diminish as the body becomes used to the drug. Conversely, some side effects might appear after prolonged use.

Age

Age can also affect how a medication behaves in the body. Older adults or younger individuals may metabolise medications differently, potentially impacting the occurrence and severity of side effects. Elderly individuals may be more prone to experience Trazodone-induced side effects than younger ones.

Individual susceptibility

Some individuals may be more prone to experiencing paranoid symptoms due to their unique neurobiology or vulnerability factors. Personal and family psychiatric history and other individual factors can influence the potential for side effects.

Underlying health conditions

Individuals with pre-existing mental health conditions, especially psychosis or schizophrenia, may be at a higher risk of experiencing Trazodone-induced paranoia. Neurological disorders, autoimmune diseases and brain lesions may also increase the risk of experiencing paranoid symptoms.

High levels of chronic stress as well as traumatic experiences like physical or emotional abuse can contribute to the development or exacerbation of paranoid symptoms like mistrust or suspiciousness.

Lifestyle factors

Inadequate or irregular sleep patterns can affect the normal functioning of the brain and impact the perception and interpretation of reality, increasing the risk of experiencing Trazodone-induced paranoia.

Social isolation and minimum social support can lead to mistrust and suspicion. This can also lead to distorted thinking patterns and increased susceptibility to paranoid thoughts.

How to manage Trazodone-induced paranoia?

While the likelihood of experiencing paranoia specifically due to Trazodone is very low or rare, it is still important to be aware of strategies to avoid potential side effects.

To minimize the risk of experiencing Trazodone-induced paranoia, it is important to follow certain recommendations and precautions.

Consulting healthcare provider

It is essential to stay in regular communication with your doctor throughout your course of treatment. Paranoia associated with the initial phase of Trazodone treatment may subside as the body adjusts to the medication.

However, if the symptoms do not disappear, inform your doctor promptly. They can assess your condition and decide on the appropriate course of action. Your healthcare provider may decide to adjust the dosage of Trazodone or switch you to a different medication if paranoia is believed to have occurred due to Trazodone.

Always remember not to stop using antidepressants abruptly as they can cause withdrawal symptoms further worsening your condition (4).

Lifestyle modification

Engaging in regular exercise, and eating a balanced diet can lead to healthier well-being and aid in minimizing the risk of experiencing adverse effects.

Limit or completely avoid substances such as alcohol or illicit drugs while taking Trazodone and engage in self-care practices like relaxation techniques and getting adequate sleep.

Stay close to family, friends or support groups during Trazodone treatment. Being around people you trust can help ease paranoid thoughts.

Furthermore, educate yourself about the potential side effects of Trazodone, including paranoia, and be aware of any changes in your mental health or behaviour.

Based on my research, I have concluded that Trazodone can rarely cause paranoia as there have been no case reports or clinical trials specifically linking Trazodone to paranoia. However, antidepressants like Trazodone can increase anxiety and paranoia in certain individuals.

To minimize the risk of experiencing Trazodone-induced paranoia, I recommend taking medication as prescribed, engaging in a support system, practising self-care and reaching out to your healthcare provider for management strategies if paranoia occurs.