Trazodone was developed in the 1960s as an anti-depressant medication. It is used to treat depression and anxiety, and in treatment centers, it is prescribed for alcohol dependence and insomnia. Drugs such as Trazodone affect the chemical balance in the brain and fall under a class of medications known as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). Depression and other mental disorders are caused by low serotonin levels, a neurotransmitter that regulates emotions. Trazodone blocks the brain’s neurons from using too much serotonin, which leaves the person feeling more stable and happier.
Addiction treatment professionals have come to rely on Trazadone as the mainstay for reversing insomnia instead of other addictive sleeping medications. Learn more about prescription drug addiction treatment. Call us today at 866.931.6429.
What Is Trazadone Addiction?
Since it is a sedative, Trazodone provides a calming and relaxing effect, sometimes leading to abuse and dependency. Many people also become physically dependent on Trazadone and cannot fall asleep without it. Trazadone addiction will resemble other addictive behaviors, but Trazadone is most often abused with other drugs and alcohol. Signs of abuse or addiction to Trazadone include:
- Falsifying symptoms to get more prescriptions for Trazadone
- Buying Trazadone illegally
- Taking more Trazadone than prescribed
- Drinking alcohol with Trazadone
- Experiencing anxiety or depression when they run out of Trazadone
- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms
- Diagnosed with Serotonin Syndrome
How Is Trazadone Prescribed?
Trazodone goes by the brand names Desyrel, Dividose, and Oleptro. It comes in the strengths of 25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg, 150 mg, and 300 mg tablets. An individual’s response to the medication determines how much Trazadone they require. Most people start with 50 mg and increase if needed.
The use of Trazodone is generally safe, and it is effective in treating depression and insomnia. Despite that, it is still a substance that carries the risks of misuse, dependence, and addiction. Trazodone is addictive, and anyone taking it should only use it when instructed to do so by their healthcare provider.
What is Serotonin Syndrome?
The Mayo Clinic has a description of serotonin syndrome, which can occur when someone abuses Trazadone since it is an SSRI. They say that excessive accumulation of serotonin in the body creates the symptoms of serotonin syndrome.
Typically, brain and spinal cord nerve cells produce serotonin that helps regulate attention, behavior, and body temperature. Other nerve cells in the body, primarily in the intestines, also produce serotonin. Although it’s possible that taking just one drug that increases serotonin levels can cause serotonin syndrome in some people, this condition occurs most often when people combine certain medications. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) can potentially cause serotonin syndrome.
Recognizing Trazadone Withdrawal Symptoms
Anyone who is physically dependent on Trazadone or is abusing it will have a tolerance to the effects and need more and more to experience the ‘high’ or sleepy results. Most prescribing doctors will reduce Trazadone slowly to avoid the onset of withdrawal symptoms that include insomnia, agitation, muscle spasms and pain, headaches, confusion, mood swings, anxiety, depression, dizziness, stomach pain, sweating, and fatigue.
If you or a loved one is experiencing Trazadone withdrawals, it is time to get professional help at Evoke Wellness in Massachusetts. We provide same-day admission to the following Trazadone treatment programs:
- Trazadone Detox / Acute Treatment Services
- Intensive Inpatient Treatment
- Clinical Stabilization Services
- Dual Diagnosis
- Behavioral Therapy
- Individual Counseling
Trazadone Addiction Treatment
Addiction treatment is a process through which individuals with addictive behaviors are able to stop their use. These behaviors may include alcohol, drug, or gambling addiction and they can be life changing if left untreated. Addictive behavior has a psychological basis that must be understood in order to treat the problem effectively.
There are many different approaches to treatment that must be explored in order to determine what works best for each individual. Some of the most common treatments include psychotherapy, 12-step programs and support groups, medication, detoxification services (such as medical detox), or a combination of these approaches.
There are several treatment options available to help people overcome an addiction to trazodone. These may include behavioral therapies like cognitive behavioral therapy, group supportive therapy, or family therapy. Other options might be medications that work as a replacement for trazodone, such as bupropion or naltrexone. With the help of a professional medical team, you can overcome your addiction and start working toward a happier and healthier lifestyle.
Addiction to trazodone is treatable with the help of professionals. If you or someone you love is addicted to this drug and needs treatment, seek support from an addiction specialist today.
Evoke Wellness Experience and Expertise is Available
Call now for immediate help and chat or email for more information. Do not let the safety of your loved one be compromised by the low abuse and addiction rates of Trazadone. It is an addictive drug that can cause an accidental overdose when combined with other drugs or alone. We have evidence-based solutions as treatment and the medical team to help you right now. Therefore, give us a call today at 866.931.6429.
