There are several drugs that doctors prescribe to insomnia sufferers. You might have already encountered a few like:
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Antidepressants (Trazodone)
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Benzodiazepines (Emazepam, Triazolam, etc)
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Doxepine (Silenor)
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Eszopiclone (Lunesta)
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Ramelteon (Rozerem)
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Suvorexant (Belsomra)
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Zaleplon (Sonata)
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Zolpidem (Ambien, Edluar, Intermezzo)
These are FDA-approved drugs. However, the FDA warns users of next-day impairment when taking some of these prescription medicines. According to the FDA, their effects could last for hours. But what about the popular safe antidepressant Trazodone? Are antidepressants like this one effective in treating insomnia and sleep deprivation? Are there associated dangers? Can Trazodone get you high? What about a Trazodone overdose?
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Trazodone is prone to abuse by those who want to get high despite the warnings issued by the FDA. Let’s dig in and learn more about Trazodone and the dangers of abusing prescription drugs.
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What is Trazodone?
Trazodone is an FDA-approved drug for the treatment of a major depressive disorder. It works by moderating the levels of serotonin, a chemical in the body which helps regulate the internal clock for resting and being awake. It also plays a role in well-being, appetite, mood, memory, and sexual functions and desires. Low levels of serotonin are linked to depression.
Is Trazodone a Sleeping Pill?
In 2014, the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry published a study that highlighted the effectiveness of using Trazodone in treating insomnia among people with Alzheimer’s disease.
Aside from that, Trazodone is also prescribed to treat anxiety, schizophrenia, or for managing uncontrolled movements resulting from other drug use.
What are the Dangers of Overdosing on Trazodone?
The Toxicology Data Network published information on its website detailing the dangers of Trazodone high or overdosing:
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Overdosing Trazodone could be fatal. In one case, Trazodone intoxication was found as the cause of the death of an 86-year-old man with cancer, who also suffered from depression. Another report revealed that a 30-year-old woman who had an overdose of Trazodone, suffered from a life-threatening ventricular dysrhythmia called Torsades de pointes (TdP).
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Parkinsonism. There was also a recorded case of induced Parkinsonism experienced by a hemodialysis male patient who had depressive symptoms. He was given Trazodone orally and his depressive symptoms improved. But the patient showed Parkinsonism, which later decreased after he stopped taking Trazodone.
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Priapism. An individual who was actively using cocaine was eported with a case of priapism, after he overdosed on Trazodone. Priapism is a condition where the penis remains erect for a few hours, accompanied by persistent pain.
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Cardiac arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat. In 2001, a case of suicide using Trazodone alone was reported. The 40-year-old patient had arrhythmia TdP, developed multiple organ failure and died a day after his admission to the emergency room.
The FDA has already issued a warning that Trazodone could increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior.
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Are You Taking Trazodone?
If you are taking Trazodone to treat your insomnia, you should watch out for the following overdose symptoms:
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Drowsiness
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Vomiting
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Priapism
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Irregular heartbeat
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Trouble breathing
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Seizures
You should also let your doctors know about your medical and family history.
Trazodone was found to enhance the body’s response to substances like alcohol and other medications. Tell your doctor all the medications that you are taking, to avoid dangerous side effects.
If you have insomnia, seek help from experts. Sleep deprivation can also be a sign of clinical depression.
If you have a dual diagnosis, you could get the proper help in various treatment centers that offer a more holistic approach. The best way to deal with sleep deprivation and depression is to know your options, and get help from those experienced in this field.
Want more information about how Chapters Capistrano can help? Feel free to call 949-276-2886 and one of our addiction specialists will help get the information and help you need.
