Can You Take Duloxetine with Alcohol?
Last reviewed: · Source: US FDA drug label database
Avoid alcohol with duloxetine — the combination increases liver enzyme levels and may cause liver damage, in addition to worsening depression.
Is it safe to take Duloxetine with Alcohol?
Duloxetine (Cymbalta) and alcohol share a specific risk that most other SSRIs do not: both are hepatotoxic (potentially damaging to the liver). Duloxetine is already cautioned in people with liver disease, and alcohol adds significant additional hepatic stress. The FDA and the drug's label specifically warn against using duloxetine in people who use alcohol substantially. Beyond liver risk, alcohol also worsens depression and anxiety, counteracting treatment.
How do Duloxetine and Alcohol interact?
Duloxetine is extensively metabolised by CYP1A2 and CYP2D6 in the liver. Alcohol is metabolised via ADH and CYP2E1, also in the liver. Combined metabolic load can raise liver enzymes and in susceptible individuals cause hepatotoxicity. Duloxetine's product label states it should not be used in patients with substantial alcohol use.
Data sourced from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) drug label database: FDA duloxetine drug label — alcohol and liver warning; OpenFDA drug label data.
Who should be careful?
Everyone on duloxetine. Any history of liver disease is an absolute reason to avoid alcohol. Those on other hepatotoxic medications.
What if I've already taken Duloxetine and Alcohol?
If you drink regularly on duloxetine, get liver function tests done by your GP. Signs of liver problems: yellowing of skin/eyes, dark urine, upper right abdominal pain. Seek urgent medical attention if these develop.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drink alcohol on duloxetine?
No. Duloxetine's label specifically warns against substantial alcohol use due to liver risk. Alcohol also worsens the depression and anxiety duloxetine treats.
Why is duloxetine particularly bad with alcohol?
Both duloxetine and alcohol can damage the liver. Together they increase liver enzyme levels and, in people who drink regularly, may cause liver damage.
Can I have the occasional drink on duloxetine?
The FDA advises against alcohol with duloxetine. Discuss any alcohol use with your prescribing doctor — liver function monitoring may be appropriate.
What are the signs of liver problems from duloxetine and alcohol?
Yellow skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, pale stools, upper right abdominal pain, fatigue. If these occur, stop alcohol immediately and contact your GP urgently.