Can I take Sertraline and Trazodone together?

You should only take sertraline and trazodone together if they have been specifically prescribed by your doctor. Combining them can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.

Why this happens

Both sertraline and trazodone increase the levels of serotonin in the brain. When used together, these effects add up (pharmacodynamic interaction), potentially leading to an overload. Additionally, both drugs can have a sedative effect, which is increased when they are combined.

How to know if you're experiencing a drug interaction

You may be experiencing an interaction between sertraline and trazodone if you have:

• Agitation or restlessness.

• Confusion.

• Rapid heart rate.

• Sweating more than usual.

• Shivering or goosebumps.

• Muscle twitching or stiffness.

• Diarrhoea.

• Fever.

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical help immediately.

How to take sertraline and trazodone safely

• Take them only if your doctor has prescribed them together.

• Be aware of symptoms of serotonin syndrome, such as shivering, sweating, a very high temperature, fast heartbeat, muscle twitching, or agitation.

• Avoid driving or using machinery until you know how this combination affects you.

Important precautions

Suicidal thoughts and self-harm

Antidepressants can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or self-harm, particularly in the first few weeks of treatment or when the dose is changed. Patients and their families should monitor for any changes in mood or behaviour.

Serotonin Syndrome

Taking these medicines together increases the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. Seek immediate medical help if you experience agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, shivering, or severe muscle stiffness.

Bleeding disorders

These medicines can increase your risk of bleeding, especially in the stomach. This risk is higher if you also take aspirin, ibuprofen (NSAIDs), or blood-thinning medications like warfarin.

Priapism (prolonged erection)

Trazodone can cause a painful, persistent erection that lasts for several hours. This is a medical emergency; if this occurs, stop taking the medicine and go to an A&E department immediately to avoid permanent damage.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking these medicines. Combining alcohol with sertraline or trazodone can significantly increase drowsiness, dizziness, and coordination problems. It may also worsen your underlying condition.

Grapefruit juice

You should avoid drinking large amounts of grapefruit juice while taking sertraline. Grapefruit can increase the level of sertraline in your blood, which may increase the risk of side effects.

Grapefruit juice can increase the amount of trazodone in your blood, which may increase the risk of side effects like extreme sleepiness or heart rhythm problems. It is best to avoid drinking large amounts of grapefruit juice.

Caffeine (Coffee, Tea, Energy Drinks)

Sertraline can sometimes make you feel restless or shaky. High amounts of caffeine can worsen these feelings. Monitor how you feel and consider reducing caffeine if you experience increased anxiety or tremors.

Food (General)

Trazodone should ideally be taken after a meal or a snack. Taking it on an empty stomach can increase the risk of dizziness or lightheadedness.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.