How long does Trazodone hangover last? (3+ factors involved)

In this article, we will explore the timeline for a Trazodone hangover, the research findings on its impact and the factors that affect the duration of a trazodone hangover. Additionally, we will also discuss how to manage Trazodone hangovers.

How long does Trazodone hangover last?

Trazodone hangovers, just like alcohol hangovers, normally resolve within 24 hours. However, this side effect may last for a few days to weeks (especially in the initial phases of treatment with this medication).

Grogginess and drowsiness, are common hangover symptoms of this antidepressant, especially when taken in large doses and late at night(2,4).

These symptoms, however, resolve as time goes on and your body adjusts to adjusted doses(2). When the hangover subsides, you start feeling the positive Trazodone effects like increased energy levels, improved memory and positive mood changes(4).

As time goes by the hangover effects subside, so if you are new to this medication you shouldn’t worry.

What does research suggest?

Research suggests that trazodone can cause hangovers as a side effect. However, the duration of this side effect is different among individuals as it may depend on factors such as your dosage strength, and body chemistry (2,4).

As an antidepressant, Trazodone works by blocking the effect of neurotransmitters on their intended receptors. Trazodone hangovers are associated with the medication’s sedative properties which are referred to as Trazodone hangovers (1).

Additionally, Trazodone may also cause a decrease in sodium levels in the body. This phenomenon leads to hangover symptoms such as headaches, confusion, fatigue and thirst (1).

What factors affect the duration of a Trazodone hangover?

Some of the factors that influence the duration of a Trazodone hangover include (2,3,4):

• Dosage and Individual Sensitivity- The dosage strength prescribed dictates the severity of Trazodone residual effects. People taking higher doses are more likely to experience longer hangovers.
• Individual metabolism and body chemistry
• Co-existing medical conditions- People with underlying medical conditions such as hypersomnia may increase the duration of a trazodone hangover
• Interaction with other medications- Potential drug interactions while on Trazodone may increase the duration of a Trazodone-induced hangover. For example, taking Trazodone and melatonin may worsen Trazodone hangovers.
• Health Status- A person’s health status greatly influences a person’s response to Trazodone as it may affect how Trazodone is metabolized in the body and how it exerts its hangover properties.

It is important to understand that these factors may not necessarily be the same for everyone and it is therefore important to consult with your health care provider.

How should you manage Trazodone hangovers?

If you feel like you are experiencing Trazodone hangover-like symptoms, it is important to consult your healthcare provider for guidance. Your healthcare provider may tailor your prescription to alleviate these symptoms and optimize your management for your specific needs by dose titrating to lower doses and prescribing at what time you should take it (4).

The best way to manage this side effect is by taking the prescribed recommended dose at the prescribed time. If you are taking this medication late at night or early in the morning, talk to your doctor about switching to bedtime (3).

Additional methods that you can apply to manage trazodone-induce hangovers include:

• Taking time to gently wake up in the morning.
• Practising gentle exercises in the morning.
• Staying hydrated.
• Taking electrolytes.

What to do if Trazodone hangovers persist?

If your Trazodone-induced hangover worsens or does not go away within a few weeks, you should consult with your healthcare provider. Although this side effect usually subsides with time, studies have shown that it could affect some people more than others.

Trazodone is a good antidepressant but is not necessarily the right medication choice for every other individual. If your body does not respond positively to the medication you should inform your doctor.

It is important that as you report this undesirable side effect, you should continue with the medication as prescribed to avoid abrupt withdrawal syndrome.

Abrupt withdrawal from Trazodone may cause undesirable symptoms and it should be tapered off gradually (2).

Conclusion:

Trazodone hangovers are common side effects experienced by some individuals in the early phases of treatment. For most people, this side effect subsides over time as the body adjusts to this medication. However, if hangovers worsen over several weeks, it is important to consult your doctor.

Openly communicating with your healthcare provider will provide you with alternative approaches that can be explored to ensure the most effective management plan for your individual needs.

References