Raldesy Side Effects: What to Expect and When to Call Your Doctor

Raldesy (trazodone hydrochloride oral solution, 10 mg/mL) is FDA-approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. Like all antidepressants, Raldesy can cause side effects. Most are mild and improve over time as your body adjusts to the medication. Some, however, require prompt medical attention. This guide covers everything you need to know about Raldesy side effects in 2026.

Raldesy Black Box Warning: Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors

Raldesy carries a boxed warning — the most serious warning the FDA issues — about an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in people 24 years of age and younger. This risk is highest during the first few months of treatment and when doses are changed (increased or decreased).

If you or someone you care for is taking Raldesy, watch closely for:

New or worsening depression or anxiety

Suicidal thoughts or behaviors

Agitation, panic attacks, or irritability

Extreme restlessness or abnormal behavior changes

Raldesy is not approved for use in pediatric patients. If you are under 24, discuss the risks and benefits carefully with your doctor.

Common Side Effects of Raldesy

The most frequently reported side effects of Raldesy are generally mild to moderate in severity. Many improve as your body adjusts to the medication over the first few weeks:

Drowsiness/somnolence: The most common side effect. Trazodone is known for sedation, which can be helpful if depression is accompanied by insomnia. Taking most of your daily dose at bedtime can help manage daytime sleepiness.

Dizziness: Especially when standing up quickly. Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to reduce lightheadedness.

Dry mouth: Common with many antidepressants. Staying hydrated, using sugar-free gum or lozenges, and avoiding alcohol can help.

Nausea: Taking Raldesy after a meal or light snack (as directed) significantly reduces nausea. Do not take it on an empty stomach.

Blurred vision: Usually mild and temporary. If vision changes are significant, contact your doctor.

Diarrhea: Reported in some patients, especially when starting treatment.

Nasal congestion: Due to Raldesy's alpha-1 adrenergic blocking activity.

Headache: Typically mild and often improves within the first week of treatment.

Fluid retention / weight changes: Some patients experience mild fluid retention or weight changes.

Serious Side Effects: When to Call Your Doctor or Go to the ER

Some Raldesy side effects require immediate medical attention. Contact your doctor right away or call 911 if you experience:

Priapism (painful or prolonged erection): An erection lasting more than 4 hours — painful or not — requires immediate emergency medical care. This is a rare but serious complication. Priapism not treated promptly can cause permanent damage to erectile tissue. Seek emergency care immediately.

Serotonin syndrome: Agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, fever, sweating, muscle twitching, or diarrhea — especially if you've recently started Raldesy or another serotonergic medication. Seek emergency care immediately.

Abnormal heart rhythms (QT prolongation): Palpitations, chest pain, fainting, or shortness of breath. Tell your doctor immediately.

Hyponatremia (low sodium): Symptoms include headache, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, confusion, weakness, or unsteadiness. In severe cases: hallucinations, seizures, or coma. Call your doctor right away.

Orthostatic hypotension (fainting): Sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing, leading to fainting. Especially a risk in elderly patients or those on blood pressure medications. Tell your doctor.

Angle closure glaucoma: Sudden eye pain, vision changes, or halos. Raldesy may trigger angle closure attacks in susceptible patients. Seek eye care immediately.

Suicidal thoughts or self-harm: Call 988 (Suicide & Crisis Lifeline) or 911 immediately if you or someone you know is having thoughts of self-harm.

Tips for Managing Common Raldesy Side Effects

Drowsiness: Take the larger portion of your daily dose at bedtime. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how Raldesy affects you.

Nausea: Always take Raldesy after a meal or light snack as directed on the label.

Dizziness: Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions. Avoid alcohol, which can enhance dizziness.

Dry mouth: Drink plenty of water; try sugar-free lozenges or gum.

Raldesy and Alcohol: Avoid Combining

Raldesy may enhance the effects of alcohol and other CNS depressants (including barbiturates and benzodiazepines). Combining Raldesy with alcohol increases sedation and the risk of serious adverse effects. Avoid alcohol while taking Raldesy.

Don't Stop Raldesy Abruptly

Stopping Raldesy suddenly can cause discontinuation symptoms. Always taper your dose under your doctor's guidance. For more on how Raldesy interacts with other medications, see our guide on Raldesy drug interactions.