Can You Take Citalopram with Alcohol?
Last reviewed: · Source: US FDA drug label database
Avoid alcohol with citalopram — it worsens depression, may increase sedation, and both affect heart rhythm at higher levels.
Is it safe to take Citalopram with Alcohol?
Citalopram is an SSRI antidepressant. Like all SSRIs, it should not be combined with alcohol. Alcohol worsens depression and anxiety — the conditions citalopram treats — and can cause emotional instability. Citalopram is also associated with dose-dependent QT interval prolongation (an electrical heart rhythm abnormality), and high alcohol intake may have similar effects, raising concern about combined cardiovascular risk at high doses.
How do Citalopram and Alcohol interact?
Alcohol disrupts serotonergic signalling and independently worsens mood, counteracting citalopram's therapeutic effects. Citalopram inhibits SERT and also has minor hERG potassium channel-blocking activity, slightly prolonging QT interval. Heavy alcohol use can also affect cardiac conduction. The combination at high doses warrants caution regarding cardiac rhythm.
Data sourced from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) drug label database: OpenFDA citalopram drug label.
Who should be careful?
Everyone on citalopram. Particularly those on higher doses (40mg) where QT effects are more pronounced. Those with pre-existing cardiac conditions.
What if I've already taken Citalopram and Alcohol?
If you have had a small amount of alcohol with citalopram and feel well, no immediate concern. If you experience palpitations or feel very unwell, seek medical advice.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drink alcohol while taking citalopram?
No. Alcohol worsens depression and anxiety and may increase citalopram's side effects. NHS guidance advises avoiding alcohol on citalopram.
Can citalopram and alcohol affect the heart?
Citalopram can slightly affect heart rhythm (QT prolongation) at high doses. Heavy alcohol can have similar effects. The combination, particularly at higher citalopram doses, warrants caution.
Does citalopram make you more sensitive to alcohol?
Some people on citalopram report feeling the effects of alcohol more than usual. The combination can cause unexpected sedation and mood changes.
Can I have a glass of wine on citalopram?
The NHS advises avoiding alcohol on all antidepressants. While one glass is unlikely to cause a medical emergency, alcohol consistently works against antidepressant treatment.