March 27, 2023Tyler Collins
Trazodone is an antidepressant prescription drug that is commonly used to treat depression. It is also used to treat insomnia. It is also known by its brand name, Desyrel.
This drug has been around for quite some time and is one of the most commonly prescribed medications in the United States. But what exactly is it and is it a controlled substance? Is trazodone a narcotic?
At first glance, it can be difficult to know whether or not trazodone is a controlled substance and what the potential side effects are from taking it.
In this blog post, we’ll go into detail on what trazodone is, whether or not it’s classified as a controlled drug, any side effects that may occur with its use, and the advantages of taking this drug to treat depression and insomnia.
What Is Trazodone?
Trazodone is a medication used to treat a variety of conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders and insomnia. It belongs to a class of drugs called serotonin modulators that work by affecting serotonin levels in the brain.
This drug has been found effective for treating major depressive disorder due to its ability to increase natural neurotransmitters such as serotonin and norepinephrine, which help maintain mental balance.
In terms of efficiency, trazodone has been found effective for treatment due to its wide range of uses. Clinical trials have shown that it can be used successfully to manage depressive episodes in addition to anxiety disorders and insomnia.
As such, it is an important tool for those dealing with these difficult conditions and can be an invaluable part of their overall treatment plan.
Is Trazodone a Controlled Substance?
No, trazodone is not classified as a controlled substance according to the US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). It is also not a narcotic. It does not fall under Schedule I, Schedule II, or any other drug schedule.
However, due to its sedative properties, its potential for abuse should be monitored when prescribing this drug. Additionally, high doses of trazodone may interact with monoamine oxidase inhibitors or other antidepressants causing an increase in heart rate so caution must be taken when using this medication with other drugs.
Trazodone Abuse
Trazodone is an antidepressant medication that has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its sedative effects.
Many people choose to abuse trazodone because it can provide a sense of relaxation and sedation, a bit similar to the feeling of being drunk or high from opioids. Unfortunately, trazodone is also easier to access than other drugs. To make matters worse, many users take large doses of trazodone which can lead to serious health problems.
Abuse of trazodone can also result in psychological addiction and its sedative effects can impact activities like work and socializing. The most severe consequence of using too much trazodone are overdoses which could lead to death.
Is Trazodone Dangerous? Side Effects of Trazodone
Like any medications, trazodone can have side effects including but not limited to drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea or vomiting, blurred vision, dry mouth, constipation, appetite changes, restlessness or agitation.
These side effects should dissipate as your body gets used to the medication over time. If these or other unusual side effects occur contact your doctor right away for further advice.
Abusing trazodone can also result in accidental overdose. Because the drug may not be as strong as opioids or benzo, users tend to take higher doses thinking they can handle it. Taking large or multiple doses of trazodone can have serious consequences such as confusion, coma and even death.
Mixing trazodone with alcohol or other drugs such as opioids or benzos can also increase the risk of overdose. It’s important to never mix trazodone with any other substance, and to always adhere to your doctor’s instructions when taking it.
For these reasons, it is important for individuals who are prescribed this medication to follow directions carefully and contact their doctor if they experience any unusual symptoms or start feeling overly dependent on the drug.
Get Help for Trazodone Abuse in Orange County
While trazodone may receive attention for being helpful for depression, the potential risks associated with abusing this drug should not be ignored. Therefore, if you are considering taking trazodone, seek professional medical help before doing so in order to ensure your safety.
If you feel that you’re having difficulties managing your drug use, or if you are showing signs of addiction, it is important to seek help from a qualified professional. At the Lighthouse Treatment Center in Orange County, CA, we offer comprehensive treatment programs for trazodone abuse and other substance use disorders.
Our team of experienced clinicians will work with you to create an individualized plan of care that is tailored to your needs and goals. Contact us today for more information about our services.
