Can I take Fexofenadine and Trazodone together?

Why this happens

Both medications can affect the central nervous system. Trazodone is a sedative antidepressant, and fexofenadine, although designed not to enter the brain easily, can occasionally cause mild drowsiness. When used together, these effects can combine (additive effect).

What you should do

It is generally safe to take these together, but you should be aware of how they affect you. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this combination makes you feel. If you experience extreme sleepiness or feel very unsteady on your feet, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Important precautions

Depression and mental health disorders

Trazodone can increase thoughts of self-harm or suicide, particularly when first starting the medicine or changing the dose. Monitor your mood closely and seek urgent medical help if you experience any distressing thoughts.

Drowsiness and impaired alertness

Trazodone is a very sedating antidepressant. It can significantly impair your ability to drive or operate machinery, especially when you first start taking it or if your dose is increased. Do not drink alcohol while taking this medicine as it will dangerously increase this sedative effect.

Priapism (prolonged erections)

In rare cases, trazodone can cause a painful, long-lasting erection that does not go away. This is a medical emergency. If this happens, you must seek immediate medical attention at an A&E department to prevent permanent damage.

Indigestion remedies (antacids)

Do not take indigestion remedies containing aluminium or magnesium within 2 hours of taking fexofenadine. These can lower the amount of medicine your body absorbs.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

While fexofenadine is a non-drowsy antihistamine, it is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking it. Combining the two can increase the risk of side effects like dizziness or sleepiness, and may affect your ability to perform tasks safely.

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking trazodone. Combining alcohol with this medicine can increase the risk of severe drowsiness, dizziness, and breathing difficulties. It can also worsen the symptoms of depression or anxiety.

Fruit juices (Grapefruit, Orange, Apple)

Drinking fruit juices, particularly grapefruit, orange, or apple juice, can significantly reduce the amount of fexofenadine absorbed by your body. This makes the medicine less effective. It is best to take fexofenadine with water and avoid drinking these juices for at least 2 hours before or after taking your dose.

Grapefruit juice

Avoid drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit while taking trazodone. Grapefruit can increase the levels of trazodone in your blood, which increases the risk of side effects.

Food (General)

Trazodone should ideally be taken with or shortly after a meal or a snack. Taking it on an empty stomach can increase the risk of feeling dizzy or lightheaded.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.