Mixing Lexapro and alcohol: Side effects and risks

This talk delves into the physical and behavioral effects when these substances are used together, pointing out the dangers of their interaction. Doctors and medical experts typically do not recommend drinking alcohol when taking any antidepressant like Lexapro. Not only can alcohol counteract the benefits of the SSRI, but it could also inflame the symptoms of depression. Lexapro (a branded version of escitalopram) is an SSRI antidepressant, but can you take Lexapro and drink alcohol? Although SSRIs are one of the safest classes of medications for depression, mixing Lexapro and alcohol is inadvisable. Finding alternatives to alcohol while managing your mental health can be a breath of fresh air!

Consequently, a user may be at an increased risk of engaging in activities that cause them injury without realizing it. SSRIs like Lexapro are among the safest classes of antidepressants, so they’re frequently prescribed. Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns. To avoid dangerous side effects such as drowsiness and liver problems, it’s best not to use alcohol while you take Lexapro. Drinking alcohol while taking Lexapro made have side effects, including decreasing the effectiveness of the medication.

• However, what we do know for sure is that alcohol consumption can potentially worsen depression, even in individuals taking antidepressants.
• This leads to a counterproductive cycle where alcohol undermines the benefits of the medication designed to improve mental health.
• Individuals may feel pressured to drink alcohol in social situations, leading them to disregard the potential risks and interactions with their medication.
• Combining these substances can not only exacerbate Lexapro’s side effects but also diminish its therapeutic effectiveness.

Is It Safe to Drink Alcohol With Lexapro?

In some cases, individuals may experience more severe side effects such as allergic reactions, suicidal thoughts, or serotonin syndrome. It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if any of these symptoms occur. Being honest with your healthcare provider can assist them in determining whether changing your drinking habits is necessary or if another medication is a better option for you. It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain to boost mood and minimize feelings of anxiety. Some healthcare providers may advise you to keep your drinking to a moderate level. “Moderate” drinking refers to one or https://appsychology.com/living-in-a-sober-house/ two drinks per day, according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.

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These effects can be particularly hazardous in situations that require mental sharpness or physical coordination. Understanding the interaction between alcohol and Lexapro requires delving into how each substance affects the brain. Lexapro, an SSRI, increases serotonin levels, which are crucial for mood regulation. In contrast, alcohol acts as a central nervous system depressant, altering brain function and neurotransmission.

When to See a Doctor for Depression

“Sometimes you choose the antidepressant based on the side effect profile, but often it will be a case of what the patient has used and tolerated before. You also have to consider what you as the doctor are most experienced in using,” Professor Lintzeris told TMR. No statistically significant difference between the treatment groups in mean number of days ± SD. Discover stories of famous actors with alcohol problems and their inspiring journeys to recovery.

In the case of SSRIs, drinking alcohol while taking Lexapro could even bring fatal consequences, if these are not addressed early on. Alcohol dependence comorbid with major depressive disorder poses a major challenge in the clinical setting. The results in the treatment with selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors have been conflicting. Looking into how Xanax and alcohol work together shows a potentially risky mix between a strong anti-anxiety drug and a commonly used depressant.

Other Drugs Commonly Mixed with Alcohol

Mixing medicine and alcohol can have different effects on the body, so it’s important to know about possible Sober House Rules: A Comprehensive Overview interactions and risks. One such combination that raises concerns is Lexapro, a commonly prescribed antidepressant, and alcohol. Lexapro is a type of medicine that helps treat depression and anxiety, while alcohol slows down the brain and nervous system. When these substances are used together, they can interact in ways that may affect your mental and physical well-being. Moderate drinking while on antidepressants can sometimes be tolerated, but it varies based on the specific medication and individual health factors. Some patients may experience increased side effects or their antidepressants may become less effective when alcohol is consumed.

Some peer-reviewed studies endorsed by medical associations also show that if you drink alcohol while taking Lexapro, you may become more prone to alcohol use disorder. They can assess you for depression or refer you to a mental healthcare provider for further help. Some experts think that “self-medication” (drinking to try to temporarily alleviate depression) may be the reason behind many dual diagnoses of alcohol use disorder and depression. This can help people regulate their emotions and improve overall symptoms of depression and anxiety. In this article, I’ll cover what Lexapro is and the risks you should be aware of when taking the medication while drinking alcohol. The woman voluntarily presented to a withdrawal facility, commenced a three-week escitalopram taper and was prescribed naloxone.

Lexapro and Alcohol Side Effects of Lexapro and Alcohol

Alcohol can negatively impact the treatment of depression even when someone consumes it in moderation. Similar to the effect that keflex & alcohol has on a person’s system, there are certain side effects of Lexapro and alcohol that you may encounter should you consume them together. Get started with our free assessment, which will tell you in minutes if treatment could be a good fit. If yes, we’ll connect you right to a clinician who can prescribe medication and have it shipped right to your door.

It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which can improve mood and reduce anxiety. While it is generally well-tolerated, it is important to be aware of potential side effects and to communicate any concerns with your healthcare provider. Remember, Lexapro is just one part of a comprehensive treatment plan, and therapy and lifestyle changes are often recommended alongside medication. Combining alcohol and Lexapro can lead to serious side effects, exacerbate symptoms of depression and anxiety, and potentially increase the risk of developing an alcohol use disorder.

These side effects may be felt between the first two weeks of taking Lexapro. You must talk to your doctor and healthcare provider should you experience worsening side effects. This particular medication, Lexapro, is used for treating depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders.