Trazodone is a medication that's used in the treatment of depression. Depression is a common mental health condition that impacts 4.7% of the U.S. population. Depression exists in a variety of degrees. Some people have chronic symptoms that affect their ability to function throughout their daily lives, while others will go through periods where symptoms subside, followed by periods of higher depression.
There are a variety of treatment options for this mental health condition.1 For some, SSRIs are a viable option. For others, a combination of therapy and medication works well. Some individuals report using cannabis in hopes of easing certain symptoms of depression.2 Because some people use both substances, questions often arise about the safety of combining them.
What is Trazodone?
Trazodone is a commonly prescribed medication for those who have been diagnosed with depression, anxiety, or a combination of the two. It's taken orally, and various dosages are available, with the right dosage typically depending on the individual's biology and individual symptom severity.
It can be combined with some other depression medications, and it's sometimes also prescribed for PTSD, sleep disorders, and bulimia. However, the only FDA-approved application for this medication is for depression.
Combining Cannabis and Trazodone: What the Latest Research Says
There’s limited research on how cannabis and Trazodone interact. Both substances can cause drowsiness. Combining them may increase the risk of sedation, slowed reaction time, and impaired judgment.
Some evidence also suggests that cannabis may affect serotonin levels. This could increase the risk of serotonin syndrome when paired with medications like Trazodone. This condition can lead to symptoms such as confusion, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, or agitation. In severe cases, it may require immediate medical attention.
CBD may also impact how Trazodone is metabolized. One animal study found that CBD interfered with Trazodone’s ability to reduce cortisol levels, possibly due to CYP450 enzyme inhibition.3 This could increase the side effects of Trazodone, but further research is needed.
If you're considering cannabis or CBD and take Trazodone, speak with your doctor to better understand potential risks or interactions.
Are You Considering Using Cannabis and Trazodone?
Combining cannabis with any substance or medication carries its own risks. Cannabis research is still in its earliest stages, and there is a lot that researchers still don't know. That leaves the door open for unexpected interactions with other substances. If you are considering combining cannabis with any other substance or medication, speak to your doctor for proper medical guidance.
Likewise, stopping the use of a prescribed medication can lead to unintended consequences. Many medications take time to build up in the body. Stopping suddenly can cause unpleasant and potentially serious or even fatal side effects. If you'd like to stop using or replace a medication, you need to follow the guidance of your medical provider to make any approved adjustments safely.
References
- Schwasinger-Schmidt TE, Macaluso M. Other Antidepressants. Handbook of Experimental Pharmacology. 2019;250:325-355. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/164_2018_167
↩︎ - Gorfinkel LR, Stohl M, Hasin D. Association of Depression With Past-Month Cannabis Use Among U.S. Adults Aged 20 to 59 Years, 2005 to 2016. JAMA Network Open. 2020;3(8):e2013802. doi:https://doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.13802
↩︎ - Mazza M, Emanuele Caroppo, Giuseppe Carlo Marano, et al. Trazodone Prolonged-Release Monotherapy in Cannabis Dependent Patients during Lockdown Due to COVID-19 Pandemic: A Case Series. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2022;19(12):7397-7397. doi:https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19127397
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