A perennial matter of debate is whether or not antidepressants like Trazodone are addictive, or is Trazodone habit forming, as these drugs typically don't cause cravings. Trazodone is intended for long-term use, and although using it for months or even years is not considered risky, prolonged usage may lead to dependency - which means that a person may come to rely on it to the point that they will experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop using cold-turkey. If a person relies on Trazodone to feel normal or exhibits withdrawal symptoms without it, they have likely developed a dependence.
Abruptly discontinuing Trazodone can result in uncomfortable withdrawal symptoms. Individuals who want to stop taking the medication should consult a healthcare provider who can help them taper off the drug slowly, and avoid any unpleasant side effects.
To avoid withdrawal symptoms, some people might continue taking Trazodone even when it is no longer needed. In severe cases, those struggling with dependency or addiction might seek additional prescriptions from different doctors or resort to illegal means of obtaining the medication. This recurring cycle of withdrawal and relapse is characteristic of addiction disorders.
Fortunately, prescription drug addiction can be addressed through detox and combination therapy provided at a rehabilitation facility like Avenues Recovery.
What is Trazodone?
Trazodone is a prescription medication that is mostly used to treat major depression, and sometimes alcohol dependence or difficulty sleeping (insomnia). It is part of a class of drugs known as serotonin antagonists and reuptake inhibitors (SARIs). While Trazodone is not usually considered addictive in the same way that substances like opioids or stimulants are, it is still important to use it as prescribed by a healthcare professional.
If someone takes Trazodone consistently and then suddenly stops, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can include:
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Flu-like symptoms
- Headaches
- Difficulty walking
- Suicidal thoughts
However, these withdrawal symptoms are generally not as severe as those associated with some other substances. It's important to follow the prescribed dosage and guidelines provided by a healthcare professional. If you have concerns about your use of Trazodone or are experiencing side effects, it's important to discuss them with your healthcare provider. Stopping the medication quickly without medical supervision can lead to withdrawal symptoms and potentially worsen the underlying condition for which Trazodone was prescribed.
If you or someone you know is struggling with Trazodone abuse, reach out to Avenues Recovery so we can guide you on your path to recovery.
Can Trazodone Get You High?
When used according to a doctor’s instructions, Trazodone does not produce feelings of euphoria or a Trazodone high. However, being a sedative, it causes a feeling of calm, which many people seek. Trazodone has a lower potential for abuse compared to prescription painkillers or stronger sedatives like benzodiazepines. Addiction resulting from proper Trazodone use is rare.
All psychoactive substances can be addictive when abused and not used as intended. Due to its perceived safety, Trazodone may be more readily available for people looking to experiment or have fun than fully illegal substances. If someone begins to play around with their prescribed medications by taking large amounts of Trazodone or snorting it to enhance its calming effects, they are at a real risk of developing a substance use disorder, experiencing withdrawal, and even overdosing. Existing case studies examining Trazodone snorting patterns suggest a need for increased attention to this form of antidepressant medication misuse.
What Are Some Trazodone Addiction and Trazodone Abuse Symptoms?
If someone is misusing Trazodone or has developed a dependence on it, they may exhibit the following symptoms:
Increased Tolerance: Over time, a person may find that they need higher doses of Trazodone to achieve the same effects.
Withdrawal Symptoms: If someone abruptly stops taking Trazodone after regular use, they may experience withdrawal symptoms. These can include anxiety, irritability, insomnia, and flu-like symptoms.
Compulsive Drug Use: A person may continue to use Trazodone despite negative consequences, such as health issues or problems in personal and professional relationships.
Preoccupation with Getting the Drug: Someone who is addicted to Trazodone may spend a significant amount of time thinking about getting and using the medication.
Neglect of Responsibilities: Addiction can lead to neglect of responsibilities at work, school, or home, as the individual's focus shifts towards obtaining and using the drug.
Social Isolation: An addicted person may withdraw from social activities and relationships, preferring to spend time alone or with others who also misuse substances.
Changes in Behavior: Individuals struggling with addiction may exhibit changes in behavior, such as mood swings, irritability, or increased secrecy.
Why Do People Abuse Trazodone?
Some common reasons why people may abuse Trazodone include:
Sedative Effects: Trazodone has sedative effects, and some individuals may misuse it to induce feelings of relaxation or drowsiness. This is particularly common among people seeking relief from sleep issues (insomnia), or those looking for a quick way to relax.
Euphoria: While Trazodone is not known for producing a "high" in the same way some other substances do, individuals may misuse it in an attempt to achieve a euphoric or altered state of consciousness.
Self-Medication: Some individuals may use Trazodone as a form of self-medication to cope with emotional or psychological distress. This can be a way for them to manage symptoms of depression or anxiety without proper medical supervision.
Experimentation: In some cases, individuals may misuse Trazodone out of curiosity or experimentation. They might try using it for purposes other than its intended medical use.
Combination with Other Substances: Trazodone may be abused in combination with other substances to enhance or alter the effects. This is particularly risky, as combining medications can lead to unpredictable and potentially dangerous interactions.
Dependency: Although Trazodone is not considered highly addictive, some individuals may develop a psychological or physical dependency on the drug, leading to misuse or abuse.
Who Abuses Trazodone?
The following types of people are most likely to abuse Trazodone:
- Those with a history of substance abuse
- Those who are seeking sedation for sleep or relaxation
- Individuals with a mental health disorder and substance use disorder
- Young adults who like to experiment with drugs for fun
- Polydrug users
Trazodone Addiction Treatment Options
Trazodone is not considered a highly addictive substance, but it's crucial to address any misuse or dependency on the medication promptly. In cases of severe dependence, a medical detoxification process may be necessary to manage withdrawal symptoms safely. This should be conducted under the supervision of healthcare professionals in a specialized facility like Avenues Recovery.
Inpatient or residential rehabilitation programs provide a structured and supportive environment for individuals recovering from substance use disorders.
These programs typically involve:
- counseling
- therapy
- support groups
- education on coping strategies
Outpatient programs are great for people with less severe addiction issues who can manage their recovery while living at home. These programs offer counseling, therapy sessions, and support groups on a scheduled basis. Individual and group counseling sessions, as well as various forms of therapy (such as cognitive-behavioral therapy or contingency management), can help people deal with the root causes of their addiction and develop coping mechanisms.
Being a part of a support group like Narcotics Anonymous or SMART Recovery can give a sense of community and understanding. Sharing experiences with others who have faced similar challenges can be a valuable aspect of the recovery process. If an individual is struggling with both substance abuse and a co-occurring mental health disorder, a dual-diagnosis program may be appropriate. This type of treatment addresses both aspects at the same time.
After finishing a formal treatment program, ongoing support is crucial. Aftercare plans may include continued counseling, support group participation, and strategies for preventing relapse. Involving family members in the treatment process can enhance the support system for the individual in recovery. Family therapy can help address communication and relationship issues.
Conclusion:
If you or your loved one is suffering from addiction, don’t hesitate to reach out to receive the help you deserve. Our expert staff at Avenues Recovery have helped thousands of people find their way home, and they can help you too! No one deserves to struggle alone. We create personalized treatment plans and use a wide variety of therapies to give each individual the help they need to recover. Contact us to experience premier care and guidance and to discover an incredibly supportive recovery community who will be with you every step of the way.