From the Guidelines
Trazodone can affect urination in some individuals, particularly due to its anticholinergic properties which may lead to urinary retention or difficulty urinating. The medication is known to relax the bladder muscles and tighten the urinary sphincter, making it harder to empty the bladder completely 1. Some patients might experience hesitancy when starting to urinate, a weaker stream, or feeling like they haven't fully emptied their bladder. These effects are more common in older adults and men with enlarged prostates. Key considerations for managing urinary side effects include:
- Staying well-hydrated
- Avoiding alcohol
- Potential dosage adjustments or medication changes under medical supervision
- Monitoring for significant urinary problems while taking trazodone. Never stop taking trazodone suddenly without medical supervision, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms 1. It's essential to weigh these potential side effects against the benefits of trazodone in managing depression, anxiety, and insomnia, and to discuss any concerns with a healthcare provider. Given the information available, the most critical step is to consult a healthcare provider if significant urinary problems occur while taking trazodone.
From the FDA Drug Label
Other adverse reactions occurring at an incidence of <2% with the use of trazodone hydrochloride in the controlled clinical studies: ... delayed urine flow, ... increased urinary frequency, ... urinary retention Renal and urinary disorders: urinary incontinence, urinary retention
Trazodone can affect urination. Adverse reactions related to urination include delayed urine flow, increased urinary frequency, urinary retention, and urinary incontinence 2.
From the Research
Trazodone's Effect on Urination
- Trazodone has been associated with urinary retention, particularly in patients with pre-existing conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia 3.
- A study found that a patient with benign prostatic hyperplasia developed acute urinary retention while being treated with trazodone, lurasidone, and suboxone, suggesting a potential relationship between these agents and urinary retention 3.
- However, another study notes that trazodone has a low risk of anticholinergic side effects, including urinary retention 4.
- It is essential to consider the complex mechanism of micturition and the potential interactions between trazodone and other medications that may affect urination 5.
Mechanism and Interactions
- The mechanism of micturition involves multiple pathways, and various drugs can interact with these pathways, leading to urinary retention or other urinary issues 5.
- Trazodone's pharmacological properties and potential interactions with other medications should be considered when evaluating its effect on urination 4.
- Studies have investigated the combination of alpha-blockers and anticholinergics for treating male lower urinary tract symptoms, but the relationship between trazodone and these treatments is not directly addressed 6, 7.
Clinical Implications
- Patients with pre-existing conditions, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, may be at higher risk for developing urinary retention while taking trazodone 3.
- Clinicians should be aware of the potential for trazodone to contribute to urinary retention, particularly in patients with complex medication regimens or underlying medical conditions 5, 3.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the relationship between trazodone and urination, as well as the potential interactions with other medications 5, 3, 4.