Taking Trazodone With Mucinex-D

In our latest question and answer, the pharmacist discusses whether or not it is safe to take trazodone and Mucinex-D together.

Taking Trazodone With Mucinex-D
Jun 19, 2018

Rebecca asked

Hi there. I was wondering if there any interactions between trazodone and Mucinex D (it has sudafed in it)?. I took trazodone last night for sleep at 11pm, and want to take Mucinex D now (2pm). I also want to be able to take my trazodone tonight at 10 pm. Let me know if this is ok

Answer

Drugs In MortarMucinex D and trazodone do not have any drug interactions and may be taken together safely. However, the pseudoephedrine in the Mucinex-D, which is a nasal decongestant, can cause you to have trouble sleeping if taken too close to bedtime, which can counter the effects of trazodone if you are taking it for insomnia.

What Is Trazodone?

Trazodone is an antidepressant commonly used for treating anxiety, major depression, and insomnia. Trazodone should be taken with food to avoid nausea and may be taken at bedtime if excessive drowsiness occurs.

Common side effects associated with taking trazodone include but are not limited to:

  • Dizziness
  • Drowsiness
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred vision

What Is Mucinex-D?

Mucinex D is a combination of guaifenesin and psedoephedrine.

Guaifenesin is an expectorant used to treat unproductive coughs associated with colds and other upper respiratory infections. Guaifenesin helps to loosen up mucus and makes coughing more productive. Common side effects associated with guaifenesin include but are not limited to:

  • Nausea
  • Rash
  • Drowsiness
  • Dizziness
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache

Pseudoephedrine is a decongestant used to treat sinus congestion and pressure caused by the common cold or allergies. This medication provides temporary symptomatic relief by promoting nasal or sinus drainage. Sudafed is available as a regular release 4 to 6-hour tablet, an extended release 12-hour tablet, an extended release 24-hour tablet, as well as an oral liquid formulation. Sudafed can be taken with or without food but if taking the extended release formulations, it is important not to crush or chew the tablets. Common side effects associated with taking Sudafed include but are not limited to:

  • Anxiety
  • Loss of appetite
  • Sleep problems
  • Tremor
  • Nausea

Ready for a more personal experience with your meds?