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Trazodone for Older Adults

Why older adults often need a different, more cautious approach to trazodone dosing and monitoring.

Editorially reviewed
Key points
  • Increased sensitivity to sedation and blood pressure effects
  • Often started at lower doses with slower titration
  • Fall risk is a key practical consideration
  • Still commonly and appropriately used in this age group with proper dosing

Older adults are generally more sensitive to trazodone's sedating and blood-pressure-lowering effects, which raises the risk of falls, dizziness, and confusion. Many prescribers start with a notably lower dose in this age group and increase more slowly than they would for a younger adult.

This increased sensitivity doesn't mean trazodone is off-limits for older adults — it's actually used fairly often in this population, sometimes specifically because it's not a controlled substance and has a different risk profile than some benzodiazepine alternatives. It does mean dosing and monitoring should reflect this added caution.

References

  1. Trazodone: MedlinePlus Drug Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus). View source (opens in a new tab) Accessed August 8, 2026
  2. Trazodone Hydrochloride Tablets — FDA Prescribing Information. DailyMed / U.S. Food & Drug Administration. View source (opens in a new tab) Accessed August 8, 2026
Not medical advice. This article is educational and does not replace guidance from your prescriber or pharmacist. If you think you're having a serious reaction, see our emergency resources page.

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