Trazodone Side-Effect Library
Real descriptions of what each side effect feels like in practice, how common it is, and clear guidance on when to just monitor it versus when to call your prescriber or seek urgent care.
Blurred vision
A commonly reported visual side effect. Trazodone's label also flags eye pain or redness as signs to seek prompt care for a rarer, more seri…
Read more → SeriousChanges in blood cell counts
Rare reports describe changes in white blood cell or platelet counts associated with trazodone, which can affect infection resistance or ble…
Read more → Less commonChanges in taste
An uncommon side effect involving a metallic or altered taste sensation.
Read more → Less commonConfusion
A less common cognitive side effect, more frequently reported in older adults.
Read more → CommonConstipation
A commonly reported digestive side effect, generally manageable with fiber, fluids, and activity.
Read more → Less commonDecreased libido
Changes in sexual desire are reported less often with trazodone than with SSRIs, though they can still occur.
Read more → CommonDiarrhea
A commonly reported digestive side effect, usually mild and self-limiting.
Read more → CommonDizziness and lightheadedness
A frequently reported effect linked to trazodone's impact on blood pressure regulation, especially when changing position quickly.
Read more → CommonDrowsiness and sedation
The single most common trazodone side effect, caused by the drug's antihistamine-like activity — and the same property that leads to its off…
Read more → CommonDry mouth
A common, usually mild anticholinergic-type effect that can be managed with hydration and sugar-free lozenges.
Read more → CommonFatigue and tiredness
Distinct from acute drowsiness, this is a lingering sense of low energy some people notice, especially early in treatment.
Read more → CommonHeadache
A commonly reported, generally mild-to-moderate side effect, particularly in the first weeks of treatment.
Read more → EmergencyIrregular heartbeat or fainting (QT prolongation)
Trazodone can affect the heart's electrical rhythm in a way that, in rare cases, leads to a dangerous or fainting-inducing arrhythmia.
Read more → EmergencyLow blood sodium (hyponatremia)
A drop in blood sodium levels that can become severe, causing confusion, seizures, or worse if untreated — listed directly in trazodone's FD…
Read more → Less commonMemory and concentration problems
Some users report mild difficulty concentrating or short-term memory lapses, which can also be a symptom of low sodium (hyponatremia).
Read more → Less commonMuscle aches and pains
A less commonly reported musculoskeletal side effect, usually mild.
Read more → CommonNasal congestion (stuffy nose)
A commonly reported, minor side effect specifically listed in trazodone's FDA labeling.
Read more → CommonNausea and vomiting
Reported by a meaningful share of trazodone users, particularly early in treatment, and often reduced by taking the dose with food.
Read more → EmergencyPriapism (prolonged erection)
A prolonged erection unrelated to sexual activity, listed as an emergency risk in trazodone's FDA prescribing information — men should disco…
Read more → Less commonRinging in the ears (tinnitus)
An uncommon but documented side effect involving perceived ringing or buzzing sounds.
Read more → EmergencySeizures
Seizures are listed among the most severe reactions reported with trazodone overdose, and are a medical emergency wherever they occur.
Read more → EmergencySerotonin syndrome
A potentially life-threatening reaction from excess serotonin activity, most often triggered by combining trazodone with other serotonergic…
Read more → SeriousSevere allergic reaction
Though uncommon, any medication including trazodone can trigger a severe allergic reaction requiring emergency treatment.
Read more → EmergencySevere breathing problems
Respiratory arrest is listed among the most severe reactions reported with trazodone overdose, particularly when combined with other CNS-dep…
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