Mixing Alcohol and Lexapro (Escitalopram)

What Is Lexapro & What Does It Treat?

Lexapro is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). (1) It is commonly used to treat depression and anxiety disorders, as well as other conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). If you or a loved one are struggling with any of these conditions, our team of addiction specialists at Guardian Recovery can help you find the right treatment options.

Common Side Effects of Lexapro

While Lexapro is generally well tolerated by most people, like any medication, it has the potential for side effects. However, not everyone will experience these side effects, and they may vary in duration and severity.

Common Side Effects of Lexapro Include:

• Nausea.
• Headache.
• Insomnia and sleep disturbances.
• Drowsiness and fatigue.
• Dizziness.
• Sexual side effects, including decreased libido.
• Sweating.
• Dry mouth.
• Constipation.
• Weight changes.

Drinking alcohol with Lexapro may increase the risk of side effects or worsen their severity, especially drowsiness, dizziness, and sleep disturbances.

Does Alcohol Block the Effects of Antidepressants?

It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol when taking antidepressants such as Lexapro, as it can block the medication’s effects and undermine its effectiveness.

Ways Alcohol Blocks the Effects of Antidepressants Include:

• Reduced Effectiveness—Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, and it can counteract the desired effects of antidepressants, which are used to regulate and balance brain chemistry. Moreover, it can disrupt the delicate balance of brain chemicals, such as serotonin, that regulate mood and emotions. This can potentially diminish the medication’s effectiveness and make it more difficult to experience its therapeutic benefits.
• Reduced Absorption of Lexapro—Alcohol can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, potentially affecting the absorption of medications, including Lexapro. Although the impact may not be significant, it has the potential to lead to altered blood levels and, as a result, reduced effectiveness.
• Increased Side Effects—Both substances can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. When used in combination, these effects may be amplified.
• Worsening of Depressive Symptoms—Alcohol is known to exacerbate anxiety and depressive symptoms in many people, including low mood, disinterest in activities, and feelings of sadness, worry, and irritability. (2)
• Individual Factors—Responses to both alcohol and antidepressant medications can vary. Some individuals may experience more pronounced effects or unpredictable reactions.

Increased Risk of Addiction—Drinking alcohol can increase the risk of developing alcohol dependence or worsen existing substance use issues.

Can Alcohol & Lexapro Have Dangerous Interactions?

In addition to interfering with the effectiveness of Lexapro, combining it with alcohol can have several dangerous interactions in the body.

Dangerous Interactions Include:

• Central Nervous System Effects—Alcohol and Lexapro’s combined effects on the CNS can impair cognitive function, reduce the ability to concentrate, perform tasks that require alertness, and increase the risk of accidents or injuries.
• Interference with Drug Metabolism—Alcohol can interfere with the metabolism of Lexapro, affecting its clearance from the body and potentially increasing the risk of toxicity.
• Serotonin Syndrome—Both alcohol and Lexapro can affect serotonin levels, potentially resulting in an uncommon but potentially life-threatening condition known as serotonin syndrome. This is marked by symptoms such as confusion, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, fever, and seizures and is considered a medical emergency. (3)

Liver Damage—Alcohol misuse or excessive alcohol consumption can damage the liver and affect its ability to metabolize medications properly, potentially leading to increased levels of Lexapro and an increased risk of adverse interactions.