How Long Does Trazodone Take to Work?

What Is Trazodone?

Trazodone is an antidepressant indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). The way trazodone works to treat depression is not completely understood. Trazodone is known to affect serotonin levels in the central nervous system (CNS). As a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), it blocks the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin, a chemical in your brain, leaving more free serotonin available in the brain, leading to a better mood.¹

Trazodone is FDA-approved to treat MDD in adults. An FDA approval means that the medication has gone through in-depth research demonstrating its safety and effectiveness for the approved indication of MDD.¹

Will Trazodone Help Immediately?

While trazodone is rapidly absorbed, the full therapeutic effects of the medication may not be felt immediately. It can take several weeks of consistent use for trazodone to reach its maximum effectiveness in managing conditions such as depression and anxiety. However, for short-term relief, such as for sleep disorders or anxiety, trazodone can take effect more quickly.

Using trazodone for anxiety or sleep disorders is an off-label use. An off-label use is one that does not have FDA approval, but a prescriber may choose to use the medication for the condition because, in their professional judgment, they believe the medication can offer a benefit to the patient.

Patients who take the drug for a sleep disorder can experience the sedative effects within 1 to 2 hours. The exact time frame can vary depending on several factors, including the individual’s medical history, the dosage they are taking, and how they respond to the medication. Therefore, it’s important to discuss any questions or concerns about trazodone with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.²

How Long Does Trazodone Take to Kick in for Sleep?

Trazodone can start working within 30 minutes to 2 hours, but it may take up to 2 hours for some people. The sleep-promoting effects of trazodone can last between 5 to 9 hours, depending on the individual. The duration of trazodone’s sedative effects can also be influenced by the dosage prescribed. Lower doses tend to have a shorter duration, while high doses may produce longer effects. Individual responses to trazodone can vary, and some people may experience lingering drowsiness or other side effects the following day.²

How Long Does Trazodone Take to Help Anxiety?

Trazodone can take 1 to 2 weeks to start working, and it can be 4 to 6 weeks before the patient feels the full benefit when taking it to help anxiety. The exact time frame can vary depending on several factors, including past medical history, dosage, and how an individual responds to the medication. It is important to discuss questions and concerns with your pharmacist or healthcare provider prior to starting trazodone.¹

Timeline for Trazodone to Work for Depression

The timeline for trazodone to take effect can vary among individuals. Peak plasma concentrations occur approximately 1 to 2 hours after taking it. However, the effect of its antidepressant effects is usually evident within one week, with optimal effects typically attained after 2 to 4 weeks. The majority of people will experience a significant improvement in symptoms within 4 to 6 weeks of starting treatment.¹

Here is the general timeline for trazodone to start working for depression:¹

• First dose and the first few weeks: In the first few days of trazodone treatment, you may feel sleepy. This is a common side effect and will typically go away after the first few days.
• By the end of the first two months: After the first two months of taking trazodone, most people will have adjusted to the medication and start seeing improvements in their symptoms of depression. You may notice better sleep, improved mood, and less anxiety.
• Beyond two months: When taking trazodone long-term, most people will start seeing improvements in their symptoms and start adjusting to the side effects. Trazodone is generally considered safe for long-term use.

Factors that Affect the Onset of Action for Trazodone

While trazodone is rapidly absorbed, the full therapeutic effects of the medication may not be felt immediately, and this can be attributed to many factors. The onset of trazodone can be affected by a variety of factors, including the patient’s medical history, the dosage prescribed, whether the medication is taken on an empty stomach or with food, the patient’s age, etc.

Additionally, factors such as the severity of the condition being treated and whether the patient is taking trazodone for short-term relief or long-term treatment can impact the treatment. It is best to discuss with your pharmacist or healthcare provider if this medication is best for you. ^{1, 2}

Age

A person’s age can affect how quickly trazodone can work. The parameters of trazodone can vary depending on the patient’s age and overall health. Elderly patients are more likely to have low sodium in the blood, also known as hyponatremia, requiring caution if they are receiving trazodone. Additionally, elderly patients are more likely to have other diseases that may prevent them from having normal clearance of trazodone, and may need a dosage reduction. It is important to discuss any questions or concerns you have about trazodone with your doctor or pharmacist prior to taking trazodone.^{2, 3}

How Does Trazodone Make You Feel at First?

The potential side effects that some patients may feel when first taking trazodone can vary depending on the patient’s medical history and dosage. Some common side effects when initially starting the medication can include sleepiness, dizziness, and nausea. When a patient first starts trazodone, they may feel that their depression or anxiety is worse because their body is adjusting to the new medication. Typically, the patient will start to feel better after the first few weeks.¹

It is important to note that everyone’s responses to trazodone are unique, and some people may not experience any side effects during the first week of taking it. It is crucial to discuss any questions or concerns you have about trazodone with your healthcare professional or pharmacist.

How Do You Know if Trazodone Is Working?

Trazodone works by increasing the levels of serotonin and noradrenaline in the brain, which can help improve your mood. You may start to notice the effects of trazodone within 1 to 2 weeks of starting it, but it can take 4 to 6 weeks before you feel the full benefit. Do not stop taking the medication suddenly, as trazodone withdrawal symptoms may develop. If you wish to stop taking the medication, consult your healthcare professional who can help you taper off the medication safely.¹

Additionally, it is important to note that some people may feel worse during the first few weeks of treatment before they begin to feel better. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, such as thoughts of self-harm or suicide, it is crucial to seek help immediately.¹

Is 50 mg Trazodone Enough for Anxiety?

The dosage of trazodone required to treat anxiety can vary depending on the individual’s medical history, the severity, and how they respond to the medication. Trazodone is typically started at a low dose, such as 50 mg, and gradually increased as needed. Some people may find that 50 mg of trazodone is enough to help manage their anxiety, while others may require a higher dosage.

This is an off-label indication, so there are no clinical trials available to suggest the most effective and safe dose for treating anxiety. It is important to discuss with your healthcare provider the correct dose for you and help clarify any concerns.¹

What to Do When Trazodone Is Not Working

If trazodone is not effectively treating your condition, it is important to consult with your prescriber and pharmacist. Your healthcare providers will assess your situation and recommend alternative treatments or adjustments to your current dose of trazodone. There are various other antidepressants, anxiety, and sleep medications available, and your prescriber will help you explore options that may be more effective for your specific needs. Additionally, your healthcare providers may recommend non-medication interventions to complement your treatment plan. It is important to work closely with your healthcare team to find the most appropriate solution for you.

Questions to Ask Your Healthcare Provider About How Long Trazodone Takes to Work

If you are considering taking trazodone, it’s important to discuss your options with your healthcare provider, including your doctor, psychiatrist, pharmacist, and therapist. Additionally, you can ask your healthcare provider about the potential benefits and risks of taking trazodone, as well as any alternative treatments that may be available. You should also ask about the dosage and timing of the medication, potential side effects, and any drug interactions with other medications you may be taking. If you need to change prescribers or do not have access to in-person healthcare services, online psychiatry services may be a good option. These services allow you to connect with licensed healthcare providers remotely, often through video conferencing or messaging platforms.

Questions to ask your care team about how long it may take trazodone to work:

• How long will it take for trazodone to work?
• How how long does trazodone last in your system?
• What changes can I expect from trazodone and what happens if I don’t notice any changes?
• What common side effects of trazodone should I look out for?
• What happens if I miss a dose of trazodone?
• How long will it take for me to adjust to taking trazodone?
• Am I at risk for more severe symptoms if I am already taking other anxiety/depression medications with trazodone?
• What is the best dosage of trazodone to ensure fewer side effects?
• Are there drugs I am taking that could have interactions with trazodone?
• When should I reach out to you if I am experiencing side effects with trazodone?
• How often should I see my healthcare provider while taking trazodone?
• Are there any lifestyle changes I should make while taking trazodone?
• Can trazodone cause weight gain?
• Can drinking alcohol while taking trazodone contribute to weight gain?