Does trazodone cause restless leg syndrome? (5 symptoms)
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 restless leg syndrome. Furthermore, we will also talk about the link between trazodone and restless leg syndrome, its symptoms, treatment options, and what to do if trazodone causes restless leg syndrome.
Does trazodone cause restless leg syndrome?
Trazodone may cause restless leg syndrome. However, it is important to note that not everyone using trazodone may experience restless leg syndrome. Trazodone is an antidepressant used for the treatment of the major depressive disorder.
Trazodone works by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and also blocks histamine and adrenergic receptors. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter in the synaptic regions of the brain that regulates mood, emotions, memory, behaviour, appetite, and the body’s stress response (1).
Restless leg syndrome is a neurological disorder characterized by uncomfortable movements in legs which mostly occurs in the evening or at night time. This syndrome forces people to move their legs and keep roaming around, therefore also disturbing the sleep pattern (2).
What is the link between trazodone and restless leg syndrome?
According to a research study, trazodone and other antidepressants are associated with restless legs syndrome. The contributing factors that may make you more prone are whether you have any family history, if you are sensitive to trazodone, or if you smoke (3).
Another research study also suggested that trazodone when given to a patient who was depressed and had sleep issues, experienced restless legs syndrome due to which her sleep problems also got worse. Her doctor discontinued trazodone and soon after discontinuing it, she felt better (4).
Other research studies indicated that people with conditions like anxiety and depression may experience restless leg syndrome. Antidepressants may trigger restless leg syndrome or may worsen it in some individuals (5).
What are the symptoms of restless leg syndrome while using trazodone?
The symptoms of restless leg syndrome while using trazodone may include:
- Tingling or burning sensations in legs.
- Strong urge to move legs while sitting or lying.
- Disturbed sleep patterns due to continuously moving legs.
- The tingling or creepy feelings might get better when you move your legs, but it might not help you for long.
- These symptoms may be more prominent in the evening or at night time (6).
How to treat restless leg syndrome while using trazodone?
To treat restless leg syndrome (RLS) while using trazodone, you may try the following lifestyle modifications which might help you if you have a moderate RLS:
- Keep yourself active by having some kind of exercise or physical activity.
- Get a massage and take hot showers to improve blood circulation.
- You can also use a warm compress or icing to feel better.
- Reduce your caffeine intake, especially when nighttime is near.
- Use comfortable nightwear and maintain a good bedtime routine.
If you have a severe condition of restless leg syndrome, your doctor may prescribe you some medicines which are used to treat RLS, such as pramipexole, gabapentin, pergolide, oxycodone, etc (7).
What to do if trazodone causes restless leg syndrome?
If trazodone causes restless leg syndrome, and it worsens or persists, please consult your healthcare provider. They may suggest you bring changes to your lifestyle and recommend medicines. Your doctor may also gradually taper off trazodone, as sudden discontinuation may cause withdrawal symptoms (8).
In my opinion, trazodone may cause restless leg syndrome, but it is important to note that not everyone using trazodone may experience this adverse effect. Trazodone has a low chance of causing restless leg syndrome compared to other antidepressants.
However, if you experience restless leg syndrome while using trazodone, please consult your healthcare provider. They may recommend discontinuing trazodone, switching you to an alternative antidepressant which might suits you the best, along with medicines to treat RLS.
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References
1.-
Shin JJ, Saadabadi A. Trazodone. 2022 Jul 10. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 29262060. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29262060/
2.-
Ekbom K, Ulfberg J. Restless legs syndrome. J Intern Med. 2009 Nov;266(5):419-31. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2796.2009.02159.x. PMID: 19817966. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19817966/
3.-
Elrassas HH, Elsayed YAR, Abdeen MS, Shady MM, Shalash A, Morsy M. Restless Legs Syndrome among patients receiving antipsychotic and antidepressant drugs. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2022 Mar;37(2):e2817. doi: 10.1002/hup.2817. Epub 2021 Sep 17. PMID: 34533852. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34533852/
4.-
Yilbaş B. Restless Legs Syndrome Due to the Use of Trazodone: A Case Report. Turk Psikiyatri Derg. 2022 Spring;33(1):70-72. English, Turkish. doi: 10.5080/u25787. PMID: 35343583. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35343583/
5.-
Kolla BP, Mansukhani MP, Bostwick JM. The influence of antidepressants on restless legs syndrome and periodic limb movements: A systematic review. Sleep Med Rev. 2018 Apr;38:131-140. doi: 10.1016/j.smrv.2017.06.002. Epub 2017 Jun 15. PMID: 28822709. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28822709/
6.-
Restless legs syndrome-MedlinePlus [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); [updated Jun 24; cited 2020 Jul 1]. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/restlesslegs.html
7.-
Trenkwalder C, Hening WA, Montagna P, Oertel WH, Allen RP, Walters AS, Costa J, Stiasny-Kolster K, Sampaio C. Treatment of restless legs syndrome: an evidence-based review and implications for clinical practice. Mov Disord. 2008 Dec 15;23(16):2267-302. doi: 10.1002/mds.22254. PMID: 18925578. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18925578/
8.-
Otani K, Tanaka O, Kaneko S, Ishida M, Yasui N, Fukushima Y. Mechanisms of the development of trazodone withdrawal symptoms. Int Clin Psychopharmacol. 1994 Summer;9(2):131-3. doi: 10.1097/00004850-199400920-00011. PMID: 8056996. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8056996/
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