Does Trazodone Contain Acetaminophen? (1+ Active Ingredient)

By Ivan Kahwa

Page last updated: 30/01/2024 | Next review date: 30/01/2026

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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This article will answer the question, “Does trazodone contain acetaminophen?” We will be discussing the contents of trazodone, as well as drugs that contain acetaminophen.

Does trazodone contain acetaminophen?

No, trazodone does not contain acetaminophen. Trazodone helps treat symptoms of depression, insomnia, sleep disorders, etc. It acts on serotonin reuptake transporters as well as serotonin receptors, hence increasing the levels of serotonin. (1)

Acetaminophen belongs to a class of analgesics and antipyretics which treat fever and pain. It is an over-the-counter drug which is easily available without any prescription, but trazodone is an only-prescription drug and should not be taken without the guidance of a physician. (2)

The use of trazodone is associated with side effects, which need proper monitoring and missing a dose or abrupt discontinuation of trazodone is associated with withdrawal symptoms, which is not seen in the case of drugs containing acetaminophen.

What is the difference between trazodone and acetaminophen?

Trazodone is also known by many brand names, including Desyrel. Trazodone is an active ingredient which acts on serotonin receptors and inhibits the reuptake of serotonin. Trazodone is also used to treat insomnia associated with antidepressant use.

Acetaminophen is sold under the brand name Tylenol and is an over-the-counter drug which can be available without a prescription. Unlike trazodone, there are no monitoring requirements for acetaminophen. Prolonged use of acetaminophen can cause liver damage. If you are taking acetaminophen for an extended period, make sure to have a proper evaluation and consume it only when necessary.

Acetaminophen can be taken once daily to alleviate pain or fever and then discontinued, whereas trazodone needs tapering of the dose before discontinuing since it can cause withdrawal symptoms. The treatment with trazodone is always long-term to achieve the required effects.

When not to use trazodone and acetaminophen?

There are a few situations where you have to avoid taking trazodone and acetaminophen. Before taking any medication make sure you consult your physician for a proper assessment and management plan.

Trazodone:

Glaucoma
Epilepsy
Liver or kidney diseases
Pregnant or breastfeeding
If you are taking certain medications such as blood thinners, anti-psychotics, stimulants, etc.

Acetaminophen:

Liver disease
Kidney disease
Substance abuse
Stomach ulcers

How to use trazodone and acetaminophen safely and effectively?

There are a few measures to follow in order to use trazodone and acetaminophen safely and effectively, such as:

Always consult a doctor before taking any medication, such as trazodone, since the dosage varies between individuals, and this medication needs monitoring for side effects.
Trazodone interacts with other drugs, such as tramadol, other antidepressants, blood thinners, etc. and should be used with care.
Do not take acetaminophen for a longer duration, as it can damage your liver. Take it only when necessary.
Trazodone can cause sedation; avoid taking it in the morning.
A higher dose of acetaminophen can cause liver damage. Hence, monitor the dosage.
Some medications are available in combination with acetaminophen. Make sure you check the content before consuming it to avoid unnecessary double-dosing.
Consult your healthcare professional if you are experiencing any side effects after taking the medication.
Trazodone can cause side effects such as headache, fatigue, dizziness, dry mouth, orthostatic hypertension, suicidal thoughts, etc. (1)
Attend regular follow-ups to monitor for any side effects and to assess the treatment progression.
Drugs such as trazodone need tapering before discontinuation to avoid withdrawal symptoms; if you are planning to stop the drug, consult your physician.

As a pharmacist, I believe trazodone and acetaminophen are two separate active ingredients that have different mechanisms of action and treat different symptoms. It is important to know which medication treats what. Make sure you ask your physician about the drug when it is being prescribed to you.

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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.-

Gerriets V, Anderson J, Nappe TM. Acetaminophen. [Updated 2023 Jun 20]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK482369/

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Does trazodone contain acetaminophen? (1+ active ingredient)