trazodone (cont.)
PREGNANCY: There are no adequate studies of trazodone in pregnant women.
Studies in animals have demonstrated effects on the developing fetus. Trazodone
should only be used during pregnancy if the physician feels that its benefits
outweigh its potential risks.
NURSING MOTHERS: Trazodone is secreted in breast milk. Therefore, caution
should be used in prescribing trazodone to women who are
breastfeeding.
SIDE EFFECTS: The most common side effects associated with trazodone are
nausea, dizziness, insomnia, agitation, tiredness, dry mouth, constipation, lightheadedness, headache, low blood pressure, blurred vision, and confusion.
Priapism (including clitoral priapism in women), a painful condition in which
the penis (or clitoris) remains in an erect position for a prolonged period, has
been reported in patients receiving trazodone. Priapism occasionally results in
permanent impairment of erectile function or impotence. Patients should be
warned of the possibility of priapism and told to discontinue the drug at once
and consult with their physician if this reaction occurs. Trazodone also may
affect ejaculation, orgasm and libido.
Antidepressants increased the risk of
suicidal thinking and behavior
(suicidality) in short-term studies in children and adolescents with depression
and other psychiatric disorders. Anyone considering the use of trazodone or any
other antidepressant in a child or adolescent must balance this risk with the
clinical need. Patients who are started on therapy should be closely observed
for clinical worsening, suicidality, or unusual changes in behavior.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 7/16/2007
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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