Can I take Pregabalin and Trazodone together?

Why this happens

Both of these medicines act as central nervous system (CNS) depressants. This means they both slow down brain activity. When taken together, their effects add up (an additive effect), making the sedation and 'brain fog' much stronger than if you took either medicine alone.

What you should do

You should use this combination with caution. Avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or performing tasks that require you to be alert until you know how these medicines affect you. Do not drink alcohol while taking these medications, as it will make the sleepiness much worse. If you feel excessively drowsy or have trouble breathing, contact your doctor immediately.

Important precautions

Mental health disorders

Both pregabalin and trazodone can cause suicidal thoughts or an urge to self-harm. You must seek medical help immediately if your mood changes or you have thoughts of hurting yourself.

Severe respiratory depression

Pregabalin can cause serious breathing problems, especially if you already have lung disease or if you take it with other sedating medicines like opioids. Seek emergency help if you experience slow, shallow, or difficult breathing.

Pregnancy

Pregabalin use during the first three months of pregnancy may increase the risk of birth defects. Effective contraception must be used during treatment.

Drug dependence and withdrawal

Pregabalin carries a risk of dependence and addiction. Do not stop taking it suddenly, as this can cause severe withdrawal symptoms such as seizures or anxiety.

Priapism (prolonged erection)

Trazodone can cause a painful, long-lasting erection that does not go away. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment to prevent permanent damage.

Serotonin Syndrome

Taking these medicines together, or with other serotonergic drugs, increases the risk of serotonin syndrome. This is a potentially life-threatening condition; seek urgent medical care if you experience agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, or severe muscle stiffness.

Bleeding disorders

Trazodone can increase your risk of bleeding, especially if you are also taking blood-thinning medicines (like warfarin) or NSAIDs (like ibuprofen). Report any unusual bruising or bleeding to your doctor.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol when taking these medicines. Both pregabalin and trazodone cause drowsiness and dizziness; alcohol significantly increases these effects, which can lead to dangerous levels of sedation, breathing difficulties, and an increased risk of falls.

Grapefruit juice

Grapefruit juice can increase the amount of trazodone in your blood, which makes side effects like extreme sleepiness or an irregular heartbeat more likely. It is best to avoid grapefruit juice while taking this medicine.

Food (General)

Trazodone should be taken with or shortly after a meal or snack. Taking it on an empty stomach can increase the risk of side effects like dizziness or feeling faint.

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.