Side Effects of Escitalopram and Alcohol
Lexapro, the brand name of the medication escitalopram, is a type of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, an antidepressant commonly prescribed to treat depression 1. Although this medication can be effective, it can produce unwelcome and even dangerous reactions when combined with alcohol. Anyone considering drinking alcohol while taking Lexapro should talk to a doctor before doing so 1.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
General Effects of Lexapro
Many people experience side effects while taking Lexapro 1. Some common side effects include:
- mild nausea
- gas
- heartburn
- upset stomach
- constipation
- weight changes
- dry mouth
- yawning
- ringing in ears
- drowsiness
- dizziness
- sleep problems
- sexual dysfunction
- lists Drugs.com
General Effects of Alcohol
Effexor & Alcohol Effects
Learn More
Alcohol affects the body in many ways. It can cause:
- slurred speech
- euphoria
- confusion
- impaired coordination
- impaired short-term memory
- prolonged reaction time
- reduced attention span
- slower thought processes
- stupor
- coma
- respiratory paralysis
- even death
- according to Drugs.com
The intensity of the body's reaction to alcohol is dependent in part on how much and how quickly the alcohol is consumed.
Lexapro and Alcohol Together
Drinking alcohol can essentially undo the way in which Lexapro stifles depression, so people taking both alcohol and Lexapro will often feel an onslaught of depression 1. This can be particularly dangerous in teenagers because it may trigger suicidal thoughts or actions, according to the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism 3. In addition, the unpleasant side effects of Lexapro will be exacerbated by alcohol 1. Feelings of drowsiness or dizziness may be particularly severe, as these are side effects of both Lexapro and alcohol 1.
Related Articles
References
- Drugs: Lexapro
- Drugs: Alcohol Use
- National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism: Mixing Alcohol with Medicines
- Ramsey SE, Engler PA, Stein MD. Alcohol Use Among Depressed Patients: The Need for Assessment and Intervention. Prof Psychol Res Pr. 2005;36(2):203-207. doi:10.1037/0735-7028.36.2.203
- Graham K, Massak A. Alcohol consumption and the use of antidepressants. CMAJ. 2007;176(5):633-637. doi:10.1503/cmaj.060446
- Lexapro: US Food and Drug Administration
Resources
Writer Bio
Elizabeth Wolfenden has been a professional freelance writer since 2005 with articles published on a variety of blogs and websites. She specializes in the areas of nutrition, health, psychology, mental health and education. Wolfenden holds a bachelor's degree in elementary education and a master's degree in counseling from Oakland University.