Is It Safe to Combine Escitalopram and Alcohol?

Escitalopram, a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI), works to reduce the symptoms of depression and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) by bringing balance to the hormones in the brain. It affects the hormones in the brain and causes various side effects in the process that can affect one's daily life and motor skills. Combining escitalopram and alcohol is not recommended by the manufacturer or healthcare professionals because it can exacerbate the drug's side effects. In some cases, such as when the patient must drive or operate heavy machinery, combining these substances could result in dangerous situations.

Depression is caused by an imbalance of hormones in the brain, including a deficiency of serotonin. Escitalopram increases the level of serotonin in the brain to correct this imbalance. This mechanism lessens depressive tendencies, elevates one's mood and effectively eliminates depression. Common side effects of escitalopram include diarrhea, constipation, decreased sex drive and sexual dysfunction. Dizziness, drowsiness and increased appetite also are common side effects.

Escitalopram usually is first prescribed in 10-milligram pills taken once daily. This amount can be increased in 10-milligram increments after one to three weeks, depending on the patient's age. The side effects of escitalopram are minimized on the lowest dose and typically increase as the dosage increases. Adult patients should know which side effects affect them before they consider mixing escitalopram and alcohol together, which could affect their behavior, motor skills and ability to function.

Healthcare professionals advise patients not to mix this medication with alcohol. It is against the manufacturer's recommendation for the drug's use and elevates the natural side effects of the medicine. When alcohol use is chosen against the advice of the manufacturer and doctors, it is recommended that only light or moderate amounts of alcohol are consumed by people who are taking escitalopram for a mood disorder. This equates to one drink daily for women or two drinks daily for men.

Anyone who has taken escitalopram and alcohol should not operate machinery or participate in tasks that require full motor skills. Consuming alcohol while on escitalopram can increase the dizziness and drowsiness that is common with this medicine. A person should seek immediate medical attention if he or she experiences side effects such as hallucinations, fever, sweating or confusion while combining escitalopram and alcohol. These are serious side effects that need to be addressed by a healthcare professional.