Can You Take Escitalopram with Alcohol?
Last reviewed: · Source: US FDA drug label database
Avoid alcohol with escitalopram — it worsens depression and anxiety, and combined sedation can impair judgment and mood unpredictably.
Is it safe to take Escitalopram with Alcohol?
Escitalopram is one of the most commonly prescribed SSRIs in the UK. Like all SSRIs, it should not be combined with alcohol. Alcohol is a CNS depressant that counteracts the treatment of depression and anxiety. The combination can cause increased sedation and emotional instability. Escitalopram is also associated with QT prolongation, and combined with alcohol, there may be an additive effect on cardiac conduction.
How do Escitalopram and Alcohol interact?
Escitalopram is the S-enantiomer of citalopram and has the same SERT-inhibiting mechanism with a slightly cleaner pharmacological profile. The alcohol interaction profile is similar to citalopram — mood disruption, CNS depression, potential cardiac considerations at high doses.
Data sourced from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) drug label database: OpenFDA escitalopram drug label.
Who should be careful?
Everyone on escitalopram. Those with pre-existing cardiac conditions and those on higher doses (20mg) should be especially careful.
What if I've already taken Escitalopram and Alcohol?
No immediate action for light drinking, but avoid repeating. Contact your GP if you experience palpitations or significant mood disturbance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drink alcohol on escitalopram?
No. Alcohol worsens depression and anxiety and may increase escitalopram's sedative and cardiac side effects. Avoid it completely.
Is escitalopram affected by alcohol?
Yes. Alcohol can increase escitalopram's sedative effects and work against its antidepressant action. Alcohol is also independently depressogenic.
Can I have a drink at Christmas/a wedding on escitalopram?
Discuss occasional social drinking with your doctor. Many prescribers advise that one drink at a social event is unlikely to cause serious harm, but regular or heavy drinking should be avoided.
Does alcohol interact with Cipralex?
Yes — Cipralex is the brand name for escitalopram. All SSRIs carry the same alcohol interaction concerns.