Trazodone is a type of antidepressant medication that is used to treat conditions like depression, anxiety, and sleep disorders. Classed as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), this type of antidepressant works by making more serotonin available in the brain, which helps boost mood, improve sleep, and decrease feelings of anxiety.

While trazodone can provide relief for individuals with mood disorders, this drug can be addictive. This is especially the case if a person takes trazodone in high doses and for long periods. The combination of the body’s tolerance, the uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms, and the psychological challenges that arise if the drug is discontinued, make it a difficult medication to stop taking.

Luckily, however, there are options when it comes to recovering from trazodone addiction. In this article, we outline the symptoms of trazodone withdrawal and the timelines for recovery. We also address the range of treatment options available.

Overview

Eliminating an addiction to trazodone involves multiple stages of rehab that target the physical, psychological, and emotional causes. However, the first stage is to detox from the drug itself. This requires an individual to stop taking trazodone, and this is best done through medically supervised detox.

During detox, an individual will experience withdrawal symptoms which can vary between each person. This is also dependent on several factors such as:

  • Levels of tolerance
  • Individual physiology
  • Duration of use
  • Dose and frequency of use
  • “Poly-drug use” (using multiple drugs at once)
  • Co-occurring conditions or mental health issues

Trazodone Withdrawal Symptoms

Withdrawal from SSRI medications can cause what is known as SSRI discontinuation syndrome (SSRIDS). While the symptoms aren’t as severe as other drugs like benzodiazepines or opioids, SSRIs such as trazodone can produce uncomfortable effects. These are the result of changes in the brain, especially when it comes to serotonin levels.

For example, when a person takes trazodone for a certain period, the brain downregulates the number of serotonin receptors. Therefore, when trazodone is discontinued, there is a shortage of serotonin activity in the brain. While the body will naturally rebalance this system, there is a period of short-term symptoms like depression. Other symptoms include:

  • Chills
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Nausea/Vomiting
  • Shock-like sensations
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Vertigo or difficulty walking
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Headaches
  • Irritability
  • Chills
  • Depersonalization

Withdrawal Timeline

While there is no prescribed timeline for trazodone, an approximate withdrawal timeline for antidepressants can look like the following:

First Phase (Days 1-3)

Depending on the severity of the addiction, the first phase of trazodone withdrawal can occur within the first few days after the last dose (or reduced dose). At this stage, mild symptoms can appear.

Second Phase (Days 3-5)

Like most drugs, the second phase is the most intense as symptoms tend to peak and then gradually fade. During this time, individuals can experience dizziness, nausea, shakiness, and fever. If a person has taken trazodone in high doses for long periods, the symptoms will be more intense.

Third Phase (Weeks 1-4)

While the withdrawal symptoms start to lessen during this period, they typically persist for up to 3 or 4 weeks. This can include the same symptoms as the second phase, plus insomnia, fatigue, and irritability.

Post-Acute Withdrawal Syndrome (PAWS)

If withdrawal symptoms last longer than a month, this is referred to as post-acute withdrawal syndrome (PAWS). The PAWS period differs depending on the drug, but for antidepressants, the effects can even last for up to a year.

Is Withdrawal Dangerous?

Trazodone withdrawal is less dangerous than other drugs and rarely requires hospitalization. The primary concerns when it comes to detoxing are relapses and mood alteration. However, some of the risks that can occur during withdrawal include:

  • Injuries or accidents: withdrawal from trazodone can result in increased fatigue and insomnia. Therefore, driving or activities that require concentration can be a struggle.
  • Severe depression: one of the main withdrawal symptoms from trazodone is worsened depression, and this can become severe.
  • Suicidal ideation: in some cases, trazodone can lead to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. As the withdrawal period is often characterized by rebound depression and anxiety, it’s best to be monitored in a safe environment.

There are other long-term health complications associated with trazodone. These will depend on several factors, such as the duration and intensity of use.

Trazodone Treatment Programs

rehab center people holding hands

The good news is that treatment for trazodone addiction is available. While every individual is unique and will have different needs, many centers provide tailored recovery plans. Below is a list of the most common forms of drug abuse treatment programs and what they entail.

Cold Turkey

Stopping trazodone use on your own is not recommended. Not only is it dangerous because of the way the drug affects key brain chemicals, but complications and uncomfortable side effects can also occur during withdrawal. Detoxing from trazodone is best done safely under medical supervision, where clinicians can keep you safe and comfortable.

Detox Programs

Detox programs are available at certain clinics and medical facilities where they supervise a person’s drug withdrawal and provide supportive medications where necessary. These clinics are usually staffed with a team of doctors and nurses who have experience with addiction and drug withdrawal.

The advantage of going to a detox center is that medical assistance is readily available. When it comes to antidepressants, a tailored weaning-off program is often necessary as suddenly ceasing use can be dangerous. A detox center will place you in comfortable surroundings where you can be assured of help in an emergency. These clinics also provide medications to ease some of the symptoms.

Short-Term Inpatient (Residential)

Short-term inpatient centers typically start with medical detox and are followed by a program of addiction treatment such as therapy or counseling for 30 to 90 days. These programs range from basic inpatient to luxury options, all varying in terms of their amenities and types of therapy. These facilities usually provide 24-hour medical support and are often led by a team of counselors, clinicians, and doctors. Short-term inpatient rehab is ideal for individuals who need detoxing and therapy but don’t require long-term treatment.

Long-Term Inpatient

Long-term inpatient treatment is like short-term rehab, but the length ranges between 3 to 18 months. This type of program is suited to clients with severe addictions or co-occurring mental health issues which need extended support. Long-term inpatient programs can also be more effective as they provide an opportunity for a person to detox from substances and spend time getting to the root causes of their addiction. Like short-term programs, long-term inpatient rehab can vary in terms of basic or luxury amenities. Treatment typically consists of individual psychotherapy, group therapy, wellness programs (e.g., health and fitness), family programming, nutrition, and more.

Partial Hospitalization Programs (PHP)

Partial hospitalization programs (PHP) are often a step down from inpatient treatment as they provide similar intensive therapies while allowing a client to live at home. PHP programs are also referred to as “day treatment” and typically involve 4 to 8 hours of treatment per day for 5 to 7 days a week. Like inpatient treatment, a medical staff is usually on hand to assist with detox, medication management, and withdrawal symptoms. PHP programs also include in-depth therapy programs such as individual and group counseling and sessions that focus on key issues such as anger management, relapse prevention, coping skills, employment assistance, and more.

Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOP)

Intensive outpatient programs are less involved than partial hospitalization programs and typically take place at a treatment center or outpatient clinic. Clients receiving intensive outpatient treatment will usually visit the center 2 to 5 days per week for 2 to 4 hours per day. IOP is well suited to clients who have just completed inpatient rehab and wish to receive intense treatment while living off-site.

IOP programs vary between centers, but they often involve a mixture of individual and group therapy, case management, 12-Step programs, experiential therapies, cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBT), and services that cover topics like skill-building, goal setting, and relapse prevention.

Standard Outpatient Programs

Standard outpatient programs are suited to individuals who have just completed an inpatient program and want to continue some form of therapy. Standard outpatient is also ideal for people who may be juggling other responsibilities such as work or school. Individuals typically report to a treatment center or clinic 1 or 2 days per week. These programs can include counseling, group therapy, 12-Step groups, skills development, goal setting, and relapse prevention training.

Therapeutic Modalities

During rehab, centers and clinics will provide a range of treatments such as medications, counseling, and behavioral therapies. Below are some of the more effective therapy options for trazodone addiction.

Dual Diagnosis

Rehab facilities that offer dual diagnosis are often staffed with psychiatrists or clinical therapists that can diagnose or treat co-occurring mental health conditions. This kind of treatment is especially useful for people who have underlying issues such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This allows clinicians to address these conditions alongside withdrawal from the trazodone itself.

Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is one of the most effective therapies for substance abuse and concurrent mental health conditions. CBT helps individuals change negative cycles of thought and behavior into more positive ones. Proven to be effective for addiction and mental health conditions, CBT also helps clients learn how to recognize “automatic thoughts” and dysfunctional thinking patterns, as well as how to understand the behavior of others and how to develop a greater sense of self-understanding and confidence. CBT also helps clients find solutions to triggers that might encourage drug use.

Dialectical-Behavior Therapy (DBT)

Dialectical-behavior therapy (DBT) is a type of cognitive-behavioral therapy that focuses on mindfulness, how to live in the moment, cope with stress, and improve relationships. DBT also helps clients identify negative influences in their lives and learn how to develop healthy coping skills. This kind of therapy is useful for people who have other mental health conditions like anxiety or mood disorders. DBT is also effective for PTSD and for people who exhibit self-destructive behaviors.

The Matrix Model

The Matrix Model is another form of therapy that has shown to be effective in treating substance abuse. This 16-week approach is comprehensive and consists of a mixture of behavioral therapy, individual counseling, 12-Step support, family education, drug testing, and encouraging non-drug-related activities. Through guided therapy, patients learn about issues connected to addiction and relapse. These sessions are designed to promote self-esteem and self-worth while the patient and therapist work together to reinforce positive behavioral changes.

Contingency Management

Contingency management is another effective treatment for addiction and is based on a reward system. In most cases, the therapist provides incentives to the patient in exchange for ongoing abstinence and acceptance of treatment. One well-known contingency approach is Motivational Incentives for Enhancing Drug Abuse Recovery (MIEDAR), which is effective for teaching individuals that it is possible to achieve abstinence using self-control. Participants who continue to abstain receive rewards such as prize draws for money or in-demand objects.

Medications and Supplements

There are currently no specific medications for treating trazodone addiction. However, there are some medications and supplements that have proven to be helpful during the rehabilitation process.

Other Antidepressants

Depending on your situation, your doctor may prescribe other antidepressants as part of the tapering process. For example, they may substitute a longer-acting antidepressant for a shorter-acting one.

Supplements

During the detox process, doctors may also provide supplements to assist with withdrawal symptoms. Some of the top supplements that are recommended for antidepressant withdrawal are:

  • Activated Charcoal: helps eliminate residual toxins in the body.
  • Melatonin: helps with regulating sleep cycles.
  • Glutathione: reduces inflammation.
  • Fish Oil or Krill Oil: reduces symptoms like brain zaps, anxiety, and aggression.
  • Magnesium: helps calm and de-stress the body.
  • Vitamin B Complex: helps with energy and aids in the production of serotonin.
  • 5-HTP or L-Tryptophan: helps the body produce serotonin.
  • John’s Wort: naturally helps with rebound depression.

Experiential or Holistic Therapies

Many rehab centers also provide experiential or holistic therapies. The purpose of these therapies is to treat the whole person and not just the symptoms. These can be incredibly beneficial for providing calmness, spiritual support, emotional expression, improving physical health, and teaching valuable skills. Some of the popular holistic therapies include:

  • Nutritional therapy
  • Animal-assisted therapy (e.g., emotional support dogs)
  • Massage therapy
  • Adventure therapy (e.g., hiking or rock climbing)
  • Mindfulness and meditation
  • Art therapy, Music therapy
  • Yoga, T’ai Chi
  • Equine-assisted (horse) therapy

Lifestyle Adjustments

Recovering from trazodone addiction can be challenging, but there are ways to make this process easier. Along with treatment, lifestyle adjustments and self-care can ease the symptoms while transitioning to a new life.

Exercise

Exercise is great for improving cardiovascular health, which is especially important following substance abuse. Exercise also stimulates endorphins which can help with depression and low mood. Good forms of exercise include a mix of low and high-intensity exercises such as walking, running, swimming, cycling, or yoga.

Meditation

Meditation is known to help calm anxious or racing thoughts. Meditation can also stimulate the pleasure centers of the brain and improve cognitive function, which is especially useful when recovering from addiction.

Eating Well

Getting adequate nutrition after detoxing from substances is vitally important. The right diet can help repair any damage incurred following sustained drug use and lead to improved immunity, cognitive function, and energy.

Avoiding Triggers

Learning to avoid triggers is vital during the recovery period. This can include people, situations, or circumstances that can prompt a desire to take drugs.

New Hobbies

While cravings can be difficult to manage, hobbies such as sports, art, music, or crafts can be useful distractions. These activities can help someone redirect their cravings and focus on something positive and fun.

Resources

If you or a loved one are struggling with trazodone abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Treatment and support are readily available. Contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 for information on support and treatment.

You can also find a list of treatment centers near you on our website to help get you on the path to recovery.

Key Sources

Davies, J. (2019). A systematic review into the incidence, severity and duration of antidepressant withdrawal effects: Are guidelines evidence-based? Addictive Behaviors. 97, 111-121. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.addbeh.2018.08.027

Elejalde-Ruiz, A. (2010). Don’t go cold turkey. https://www.chicagotribune.com/lifestyles/ct-xpm-2010-08-28-sc-health-0825-antidepressants-20100825-story.html.

Thomas, S. (2021). Do Antidepressants Cause Withdrawal? https://www.withdrawal.net/antidepressant.

Medical Disclaimer

At RehabAid.com, we are dedicated to helping people recover from problematic substance use and associated mental health disorders. If you or a loved one are struggling with addiction to drugs or alcohol, you are not alone. Information on treatment and support options is readily available through the National Helpline of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) at 1-800-662-4357. To further assist you along the path to recovery, the treatment center locator on our website allows you to easily find rehabilitation programs and services in your local area.

We provide our readers with factual, evidence-based content concerning the causes and nature of addiction, as well as available treatment options. However, this informative content is intended for educational purposes only. It is by no means a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. With regard to any addiction-related health concerns, you should always seek the guidance of a qualified, registered physician who is licensed to practice medicine in your particular jurisdiction. You should never avoid or delay seeking professional health care advice or services based on information obtained from our website. Our authors, editors, medical reviewers, website developers, and parent company do not assume any liability, obligation, or responsibility for any loss, damage, or adverse consequences alleged to have happened directly or indirectly as a result of the material presented on RehabAid.com.