Can certain medications trigger or worsen REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD)?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Certain medications—especially antidepressants such as SSRIs, SNRIs, and tricyclics—can trigger or worsen REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD), a condition where people physically act out vivid dreams during sleep. Beta-blockers and some other drugs may also contribute. If you've noticed new symptoms after starting a medication, it's important not to stop it on your own—instead, identify what may be going on so you can discuss next steps with your doctor.

Because RBD can overlap with other sleep and neurological conditions, understanding your symptoms early is key. Take a free, instant, and confidential online symptom check to explore possible causes, learn which specialists to consult, and feel more prepared for your next medical conversation.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover likely causes of RBD episodes Learn if RBD episodes need care today See if meds are triggering your RBD Find OTC options for sleep disturbance relief Find a doctor for sleep disorders Discover home remedies for better sleep Find out if RBD needs urgent care

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Explanation

REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) is a condition where people act out their dreams while sleeping. Certain medications, especially some antidepressants, can trigger or make RBD worse.

Medications That May Affect RBD:

Mirtazapine: This is an antidepressant that has been found to induce RBD in some people.
Other Antidepressants: Research indicates that various antidepressants might increase the risk of RBD.

Understanding RBD:

What is RBD?: During normal REM sleep, the body is usually still, but in RBD, people might move or talk.
Why Medications Matter: Some medications affect brain chemicals that control sleep, possibly leading to RBD.

If you or someone you know is experiencing sleep problems or mental health concerns, it's important to talk to a healthcare provider. You can also use Ubie's free AI symptom checker to better understand your symptoms and determine whether you should seek medical attention.

(References)

Onofrj M, Luciano AL, Thomas A, Iacono D, & D'Andreamatteo G. (2003). Mirtazapine induces REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD) .... Neurology, 12525729.
Postuma RB, Gagnon JF, Tuineaig M, Bertrand JA, Latreille V, Desjardins C, & Montplaisir JY. (2013). Antidepressants and REM Sleep Behavior Disorder. Sleep, 24179289.
Mahowald MW, Schenck CH, & Bornemann MA. (2007). Pathophysiologic mechanisms in REM sleep behavior .... Current neurology and neuroscience reports, 17355839.

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