Trazodone is an atypical antidepressant that is often prescribed off-label to treat insomnia. Although trazodone has not been shown to have the potential for abuse or addiction, like other antidepressants, abrupt cessation of trazodone can cause “antidepressant discontinuation syndrome” (ADS). The mechanisms underlying ADS remain an area of active study and it is difficult to predict how quitting an antidepressant will affect an individual.

It has become clear that daily antidepressant use for eight weeks or more can lead to a physical dependence that makes quitting difficult.

A recent study that evaluated the reality of antidepressant use in the United States and the United Kingdom found that, in contrast to clinical guidelines that are often dismissive of ADS, it can be very difficult to change or quit antidepressant use. Antidepressants are not addictive in the sense that heroin is; no one on antidepressants would pursue them at the expense of their own wellbeing and that of their loved ones. That does not change the fact that antidepressants are associated with some degree of physical dependence that has been largely ignored by the medical community for decades.

Although trazodone is not associated with the most severe ADS symptoms (that distinction goes to paroxetine — brand name Paxil), it can nonetheless be challenging to quit.

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Trazodone Treatment Options

For many people, a quality rehab program provides the support and structure they need in order to overcome the early days of trazodone withdrawal. Most facilities offer several programs, including:

  • Medication-assisted treatment: The first few days of recovery can be some of the most challenging. When you trust your care to a rehab center, you will spend your early days under the close supervision of medical professionals who can address questions and concerns as they arise. When appropriate, pharmacotherapy can be provided to mitigate the severity of physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms.
  • Partial hospitalization program (PHP): PHP is often a transition between medical detox or a residential program and an outpatient program. PHP offers clients the freedom to develop autonomy and self-direction as they reorient to their new sober lifestyle without giving up therapeutic services.
  • Inpatient rehab: After the initial detox period, a stay in a residential rehab facility allows many people to successfully navigate the first weeks of sobriety. Trazodone rehab programs offer clients a safe environment with 24/7 access to medical and emotional support, which can be especially important for someone who is challenged with not only trazodone withdrawal symptoms but also potentially a resurgence of depressive symptoms. Rehabilitation is not an easy process, but choosing to start recovery under the care of experts often gives the best chance for success.
  • Outpatient rehab: Although people with trazodone withdrawal symptoms may find that an outpatient program is sufficient, many people transition into outpatient rehab after completing a residential program. Outpatient rehab is a proven way to help people reintegrate into society without giving up the security that rehab facilities provide. Outpatient programs vary in intensity, and most rehab facilities offer a number of outpatient plans ranging from programs that require an all-day-every-day commitment to bi-weekly or weekly therapy sessions.
  • Dual diagnosis and Co-occurring disorders: Dual diagnoses are provided to people who have concomitant substance use and mental health disorders. Many people use illicit drugs in an attempt to manage or ignore a mental health issue. It is especially important for people who need help quitting antidepressants to find a rehab center that is fully equipped to address the mental and emotional aspects of ADS in order to maximize success.
  • Aftercare: It can be challenging to return to your former life without continued support. Aftercare programs come in many forms, but they share a common theme: People in recovery are more successful if they have peer support and access to counseling. Look for a rehab facility that provides aftercare programs that will allow you to maintain contact with your new mentors and peers, as well as provide educational and recreational opportunities, case management and therapy. Many aftercare program participants find new activities that help them maintain their recovery and develop strong relationships that offer lifelong support.

How Long is Trazodone Treatment?

It is difficult to predict how ADS will affect an individual. Some people who quit trazodone abruptly do not experience any withdrawal symptoms, while others have symptoms that persist for weeks. There are very few published reports detailing trazodone withdrawal. The ones that do exist generally report that withdrawal symptoms subside within two to three weeks, although one case study describes a man who had symptoms that persisted for 50 days. Anecdotal reports often suggest that the withdrawal period can continue for several months. In all cases, symptom severity gradually abates over time.

How Much Does Trazodone Rehab Cost?

Rehab costs vary depending on the duration, intensity of the program, quality of care and whether medical interventions are required. A 30-day residential program that includes medically supervised detox can cost anywhere from a few thousand dollars to well over $25,000 for a luxury program. A 30-day partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient programs can cost anywhere from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars. Outpatient care may cost anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000 for 30-days. Other costs may be associated with a rehab program, including admission fees, costs for medical services, and enrollment in aftercare programs. As with duration, because trazodone withdrawal affects individuals differently, it is difficult to estimate a cost for trazodone rehab.

Does Insurance Cover Rehab for Trazodone Addiction?

There are many insurance policies (including Medicaid and Medicare) that can help offset the cost of rehab. Rehab without insurance is possible in many cases. Options for financing rehab without insurance include:

  • Government Assistance Programs: Many states, including Ohio, offer funding assistance or state-run programs for people seeking rehab.
  • Sliding Fee Programs: Sliding fee scales that are based on income allow private rehab facilities to help people from all income levels.
  • Private Pay Programs: These luxury programs are often exclusive treatment centers for those who can afford to pay thousands of dollars out-of-pocket.

Unfortunately, most people who need rehab services cannot afford the incredibly high out-of-pocket costs associated with private pay programs. Some people have come up with creative ways to fund their treatment, such as using GoFundMe or Kickstarter.

Importance of Drug Treatment

Quitting trazodone is always best done with a carefully designed tapering protocol. Regardless of whether you seek extensive inpatient or outpatient care, it is important to consult with a medical professional who can personalize a tapering dose that suits your lifestyle. Working with a specialized rehab center that provides access to medical professionals whenever questions or concerns arise is often very helpful, especially in the early stages of withdrawal. Although there are no approved pharmacological interventions to help trazodone withdrawal, an experienced rehab center can determine how to best treat you and may be able to provide pharmacotherapies that ease withdrawal symptoms.

Finding a Trazodone Treatment Center in Ohio

When choosing a treatment center, there are a number of considerations to keep in mind. Trazodone withdrawal symptoms can be frustrating, and having an experienced multidisciplinary team who can address the physical and psychological aspects of your symptoms will let you focus on recovery. Below are some tips that will help you choose the right rehab facility for you:

  • Location: The best facility for you might not be the closest one. Many people find they are more successful when they choose a program that is not close to home.
  • Cost of rehab: Rehab can be expensive. Look for programs that are in your insurance network to help defray costs. Many rehab facilities offer sliding pay scales, grants or scholarships in order to help people in all income levels. Ohio has programs that can assist residents who are seeking rehab treatment.
  • Treatment methods: Trazodone withdrawal can affect people in unpredictable ways. The best way you can make sure you get the treatment you need is by finding a rehab facility that can address every aspect of your treatment, from physical ailments to psychological struggles. Look for a multidisciplinary team with experience treating antidepressant discontinuation syndrome.
  • Reviews and success rates: Many rehab programs provide statistics and client endorsements. Be cautious of programs that report 100% success rates.
  • Duration of treatment: Trazodone withdrawal symptoms are unpredictable. They may last for a week, or they may persist for a month or more. Look for programs that are flexible and tailor their plan to fit you, not the other way around. Quality rehab facilities are also proactive about your long term success. Aftercare programs can be a valuable part of your recovery.
  • Staff-to-patient ratio: Residential facilities should have low staff-to-patient ratios in order to ensure you have access to the care you need.

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