Opioid pain relievers add to trazodone's sedating effects, and the combination carries a real risk of dangerously slowed breathing (respiratory depression), particularly at higher doses of either drug or if alcohol is also involved. This combination requires close medical supervision and clear dosing instructions.
Trazodone and opioid pain medications
Opioids and trazodone both depress the central nervous system, and combined use raises the risk of excessive sedation and slowed breathing.
Editorially reviewed
Key points
- Raises risk of dangerously slowed breathing
- Risk increases further if alcohol is also involved
- Requires close medical supervision if both are needed
Seek urgent care if you notice:
- Slow, shallow, or difficult breathing
- Unusual difficulty staying awake or responsive
Not medical advice. Always tell your prescriber and pharmacist about every medication, supplement, and substance you use so they can check for interactions specific to your situation.