NyQuil With Trazodone Interaction

Answer

There is an interaction between NyQuil and trazodone that is important to be aware of. In fact, there are two interactions between them.

First, both are sedating, and combining them can result in additive sedative effects (as well as related effects like impaired motor coordination).

Second, although the risk is low, combining trazodone and NyQuil increases the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when there is an excessive accumulation of serotonin in the brain.

Although there are situations where your doctor may recommend taking both medications, their combined use should generally be avoided unless you have specifically been directed to do so.

What Is Trazodone?

Trazodone is an antidepressant that affects the level of a number of different neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin. It is often prescribed 'off-label' for insomnia due to its sedative effects, an indication that many studies support.

What Is NyQuil?

NyQuil is a multi-ingredient product that is used to treat cough/cold symptoms. The 'original' NyQuil contains:

• Acetaminophen
• Doxylamine
• Dextromethorphan

Acetaminophen is a pain reliever and fever reducer. It is the active ingredient in Tylenol.

Doxylamine is a sedating antihistamine, very similar to diphenhydramine (the ingredient in Benadryl).

Dextromethorphan is a cough suppressant.

Interaction Details

As mentioned, there are two potential interactions between trazodone and NyQuil that individuals should be aware of.

The first interaction is the additive effect of central nervous system (CNS) depression and sedation. Trazodone can be very sedating and is often prescribed to treat insomnia, while NyQuil contains a sedating antihistamine (doxylamine).

When taken together, these medications can increase the risk of sedation and drowsiness, which can impair cognitive and motor function, and increase the risk of falls and accidents.

The second interaction is the potential of the rare but potentially life-threatening serotonin syndrome.

Trazodone increases the levels of serotonin in the brain while NyQuil contains dextromethorphan, an ingredient that can also increase serotonin levels.

While there is conflicting evidence regarding the extent of dextromethorphan's impact on serotonin, there have been reported cases where individuals were suspected of experiencing serotonin syndrome and dextromethorphan was found to be a contributing factor.

So, when trazodone and dextromethorphan (from NyQuil) are taken together, the concern is the additive effects on serotonin leading to an excessive accumulation of the neurotransmitter, which can cause serotonin syndrome.

Serotonin syndrome is a rare but serious condition that can cause a range of symptoms, including:

• Agitation
• Confusion
• Rapid heart rate
• High blood pressure
• Dilated pupils
• Muscle rigidity
• Fever
• Sweating
• Seizures in severe cases

How To Manage The Interaction

The combination of trazodone and NyQuil may be riskier for certain individuals than others, depending on their age, health status, and other medications they are taking.

For example, older adults and individuals with liver or kidney disease may be more susceptible to the sedative effects of these medications, which can increase the risk of falls and accidents.

Additionally, individuals who are taking other medications that affect serotonin levels, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), may also be at increased risk of developing serotonin syndrome when taking trazodone and NyQuil together.

As a general rule of thumb, these medications shouldn't be taken together unless your doctor has specifically directed you to do so.

Final Words

Thanks for reaching out and please do so again anytime!

Video Summary