You have been prescribed an antidepressant medication called Trazodone to help manage your mental health. In your day-to-day life, you diligently take your prescribed dosage to ensure well-being. However, there comes a time when you are required to undergo a drug test, perhaps for employment purposes or as part of a routine screening. Naturally, a question arises: Will Trazodone show up on the drug test results?
In this blog post, we will look into the topic of whether Trazodone, an antidepressant medication, can result in a positive test on standard drug screenings. We will explore the factors that can influence the detection of Trazodone and shed light on how drug tests work in relation to mental health medications.
Understanding the factors that affect drug tests and the ability to detect specific substances is crucial in navigating various scenarios related to drug screenings.
What is trazodone?
Trazodone is one of the prescription medications that belongs to the serotonin-antagonist-and-reuptake-inhibitor class of medications. Trazodone works by affecting the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, namely serotonin.
It is primarily prescribed to treat major depressive disorder, but it is also used off-label for other conditions such as anxiety disorders, insomnia, and even fibromyalgia.
As an antidepressant medication, Trazodone helps to reduce symptoms of depression by restoring the balance of serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood. When the availability of serotonin in the brain is increased, Trazodone can help reduce feelings of sadness, improve mood, and increase overall well-being.
The drug is available in tablet form and is usually taken orally, often before bedtime due to its sedative effects. The dosage and duration of treatment will vary depending on the individual’s condition and response to the medication.
While it is generally well-tolerated, it may cause side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, dry mouth, blurred vision, and lightheadedness. These side effects are typically mild and resolve on their own. However, if they become severe or persistent, it is essential to seek medical attention.
Will trazodone show up in a drug test?
Trazodone is not typically included in standard drug tests because it is not considered a controlled substance. Therefore, in most cases, Trazodone will not show up on a standard drug test like a blood test, saliva test, urine test or hair test.
However, it is important to note that this drug creates false positive results for amphetamines. This means that while Trazodone itself may not be detected, the drug screening may produce false positives for amphetamines due to the presence of certain metabolites. The tests can detect amphetamine even if you’re not using it. This can potentially lead to confusion and unnecessary complications.
If you are concerned about the possibility of a false positive result, it is advisable to inform the testing facility or your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, including Trazodone. Providing accurate information beforehand can help prevent misunderstandings and ensure a proper interpretation of the test results.
How long does trazodone stay in your system?
In a standard 12-panel urine test, trazodone is not typically checked, but its use could result in a false positive for amphetamine use, detectable for up to 26 days. On a blood test, trazodone can be detected for one to three days if specifically searched for.
For a saliva swab test, trazodone can be detected within 2 to 4 days, but it will not show as a false positive for amphetamines. When it comes to hair testing, trazodone can be detected for up to 90 days. These are important considerations depending on the type of drug test being conducted.
Best substance abuse treatment in Southern california
Morningside Recovery by Lighthouse is one of the best substance abuse treatment centers in Southern California. We offer comprehensive and individualized treatment programs for those struggling with addiction, including those who may have been struggling with substances like trazodone.
We understand that each person’s journey towards recovery is unique, and we tailor our treatment plans to address each individual’s specific needs. Our programs include a combination of therapy, counseling, support groups, and other evidence-based practices to help clients develop coping skills and strategies for sustainable recovery.
