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Trazodone and Pregnancy

What available data says about trazodone use during pregnancy, and how this decision is typically approached.

Editorially reviewed
Key points
  • Available human data has not shown a clear major birth defect signal
  • Human data is more limited than for some other antidepressants
  • Animal studies used doses far above typical human doses
  • Always an individualized decision with your prescriber and OB team

Published cohort studies, case series, and case reports over several decades of trazodone use in pregnant women have not identified a clear pattern of drug-associated major birth defects, miscarriage, or adverse maternal/fetal outcomes, according to current FDA labeling — though available human data remains more limited than for some other medications.

Animal studies showed some adverse fetal effects at doses many times higher than typical human doses (on a body-surface-area basis), which is a standard part of any drug's safety data package but doesn't translate directly to human risk at normal doses.

Decisions about continuing, starting, or stopping trazodone during pregnancy should always be individualized, weighing the risks of untreated depression or severe insomnia against any medication-related considerations, in conversation with your prescriber and obstetric team.

References

  1. Trazodone: MedlinePlus Drug Information. U.S. National Library of Medicine (MedlinePlus). View source (opens in a new tab) Accessed August 8, 2026
  2. Trazodone Hydrochloride Tablets — FDA Prescribing Information. DailyMed / U.S. Food & Drug Administration. View source (opens in a new tab) Accessed August 8, 2026
Not medical advice. This article is educational and does not replace guidance from your prescriber or pharmacist. If you think you're having a serious reaction, see our emergency resources page.

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