Is trazodone safe for babies?

Understanding Trazodone and Its Safety for Babies
Trazodone is a tetracyclic antidepressant primarily used to treat depression and anxiety disorders in adults. However, its use in pediatric populations, particularly in infants and babies, raises significant concerns among healthcare professionals and parents alike.
Lack of Established Safety and Efficacy
The safety and efficacy of trazodone in children, especially those under the age of 18, have not been established. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a boxed warning regarding the increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors associated with antidepressant medications in pediatric patients. This warning highlights the potential dangers of prescribing such medications to younger populations, where the risks may outweigh the benefits.
Pediatric Use and Recommendations
While trazodone may be prescribed in certain cases for older children or teenagers, it is generally not recommended for infants or babies. Experts caution against the use of trazodone in children younger than 18 years unless absolutely necessary and under strict medical supervision. The absence of appropriate studies on the effects of trazodone in very young patients means that healthcare providers often err on the side of caution.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
The potential side effects of trazodone can be concerning, particularly for vulnerable populations like infants. Common side effects in adults include drowsiness, dizziness, and dry mouth, but the effects on babies can be unpredictable and potentially more severe. Moreover, there have been reports of unintentional overdoses in young children, which underscores the need for careful monitoring and consideration before prescribing this medication.
Conclusion
In summary, trazodone is not considered safe for babies due to the lack of established safety and efficacy in this age group, coupled with the potential for serious side effects and the risk of overdose. Parents and caregivers should consult healthcare professionals for alternative treatments and approaches to managing conditions that may lead to the consideration of trazodone. The overarching message is clear: caution is paramount when it comes to administering any antidepressant to young children.

Can you give a baby trazodone?

This drug is not approved for use in children. However, the doctor may decide the benefits of taking this drug outweigh the risks. If your child has been given this drug, ask the doctor for information about the benefits and risks.

What happens if a child takes trazodone?

Trazodone toxicity can result in drowsiness, ataxia, nausea, vomiting, QT prolongation, hypotension, dry mouth, coma, and death in severe cases [3]. Few fatalities have been reported in literature due to isolated trazodone overdose ingestions [1].

Can I give my kitten trazodone?

Moreover, some pet parents assume trazodone is safe for long-term use for all cats. While it is generally considered safe for short-term use in cats, there can be risks associated with long-term use. Prolonged use of trazodone can increase the likelihood of side effects or tolerance development in some cats.

Is trazodone used for sleep in children?

In general, trazodone is primarily used for sleep when used in children and adolescents; therefore, tapering is generally not necessary. That said, tolerance, dependence, and withdrawal effects have not been reliably demonstrated.

Why is trazodone not recommended?

Trazodone may also not be appropriate for people who have psychiatric illnesses, including bipolar disease and schizophrenia. Check with your doctor if you have heart disease, cerebrovascular disease (affecting blood flow in the brain), seizures, or kidney or liver problems.

How does trazodone affect ADHD?

ADHD. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD, is a mental disorder that makes it difficult to concentrate, stay on task, and control impulsive behaviour. If you have ADHD, trazodone may help improve these symptoms.

Can babies have trazodone?

Children younger than 18 years of age should not normally take trazodone, but in some cases, a doctor may decide that trazodone is the best medication to treat a child’s condition.

What can I give my kitten to sleep?

Give a small nighttime meal before bed
Just like humans, kittens will feel sleepy after an evening meal. Feeding your kitten wet food half an hour before bedtime may well encourage them to settle down to sleep with a fuller tummy.

What is the youngest age to take trazodone?

It is an atypical antidepressant used in the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorders, antidepressants and phobias. It is used in children more than 6 years of age.

What is the biggest side effect of trazodone?

Serious side effects
the whites of your eyes turn yellow, or your skin turns yellow although this may be less obvious on brown or black skin – this can be a sign of liver problems. you have difficulty pooing (constipation) or you’re unable to pee. you are bruising more easily than usual or have unexplained bruising.