Lexapro and Alcohol Interaction

Lexapro and Alcohol

Lexapro generic name escitalopram belongs to the family of antidepressant drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors which affect chemicals in the brain that become unbalanced and result in depression or anxiety.

This drug is used to treat anxiety in adults and major depressive disorder in adults and adolescents who are at least 12 years old.

It is suggested that you avoid consuming alcohol while using Lexapro as even moderate consumption is not advised.

At this time the medical community defines moderate consumption of alcohol as no more than two drinks per day and no more than 14 drinks per week. Anything more than that is considered an unhealthy dependency on alcohol that may have adverse social, family and health consequences.

If a person drinks only once or twice a week but drinks on the same days each week and more than two drinks this is considered as an alcohol dependency.

If a person binge drinks at any time during the week this is also considered as alcoholism.

Some consider alcoholism as a disease while others consider it an addiction which is the result of personal choice and character fault. This school of thought blames the alcoholism on life style choices.

Personally I consider alcoholism a genetic tendency as I have seen families of alcoholics even when they live far apart. These unfortunate people are probably dependent on alcohol from the first drink.

When alcohol interacts with prescription over the counter drugs it usually results in negative health effects most especially liver damage as the main organ affected.

Before using this drug advise your doctor if you are allergic to any other drug or substance, if you are using dietary or herbal supplements, are pregnant, plan to be or are breastfeeding, have a heart rhythm disorder, joint problems, kidney or liver disease, seizures or epilepsy, diabetes, bipolar disorder, manic depression, a history of drug abuse or suicidal thoughts.

Side Effects

Less serious side effects are drowsiness, dizziness, sleep problems, mild nausea, gas, heartburn, upset stomach, constipation, weight changes, decreased sex drive, impotence, difficult orgasm, dry mouth, yawning or ringing in your ears. If these occur call your physician for advice.

Serious side effects are severe allergic reaction such as hives, difficult breathing, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, mood or behaviour changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, being impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive, depressed or have thoughts about suicide, stiff rigid muscles, high fever, sweating, uneven heartbeat, tremors, overactive reflexes, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, feeling unsteady, loss of coordination.If these occur get emergency medical help.

This site serves as an information source only and does not dispense medical advice or any other kind of advice. If you are seeking medical advice you are advised to consult your own physician.

Lexapro and Alcohol

Drugs and Alcohol

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