Also known as "priapism" and how common is this side effect?
Can trazodone cause a neurological erection in men as a side effect?
- Asked
- 10 Oct 2017 by Wizdomskr
- Updated
- 4 December 2017
- Topics
- trazodone, side effect, erection, priapism
Responses (2)
**Genitourinary
Common (1% to 10%): Decreased libido, delayed urine flow, early menses
Frequency not reported: Hematuria, impotence, increased libido, increased urinary frequency, missed periods, retrograde ejaculation
Postmarketing reports: Breast enlargement or engorgement, clitorism, lactation, PRIAPISM, urinary incontinence, urinary retention**
This side effect was not seen in clinical trials of the original brand names but has been reported anecdotally by users after the drug was marketed. The actual incidence is unknown.
My doctor mentioned it to me when I started, maybe a month ago, but so far I haven’t experienced it or had any other sexual side effects. I’m at 200mg.

Further Information
- Trazodone Information for Consumers
- Trazodone Information for Healthcare Professionals (includes dosage details)
- Side Effects of Trazodone (detailed)
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From Wikipedia.
**Priapism[edit]
A very rare, but dramatic, side effect associated with trazodone is priapism, likely due to its antagonism at α-adrenergic receptors.[29] More than 200 cases have been reported, and the manufacturer estimated that the incidence of any abnormal erectile function is about one in 6,000 male patients treated with trazodone. The risk for this side effect appears to be greatest during the first month of treatment at low dosages (i.e. <150 mg/day). Early recognition of any abnormal erectile function is important, including prolonged or inappropriate erections, and should prompt discontinuation of trazodone treatment. Clinical reports have also described trazodone-associated psychosexual side effects in women, including increased libido, priapism of the clitoris, and spontaneous orgasms.**