It is used to treatmajor depressive disorderandgeneralized anxiety disorder.Lexapro works by increasingserotoninlevels to improve mood and decrease feelings ofanxiety.
This article will discuss the risks associated with consuming alcohol with Lexapro and other antidepressants.
Getty Images / Joe Raedle / Staff
Can I Drink Alcohol While Taking Lexapro?
Getty Images / Joe Raedle / Staff
It is not recommended to drink alcohol while takingLexaproor other SSRIs.
If you or a loved one is in immediate danger, call911.
Is Moderate Drinking OK With Lexapro?
There is limited research on the effects of mixing Lexapro and alcohol.
Therefore, healthcare providers generally advise not to mix the two, even in small amounts.
Either substance can make you drowsy, less alert, and uncoordinated.
When taken together, the side effects associated with Lexapro can become increased.
Some healthcare providers may advise you to keep your drinking to a moderate level.
Moderate drinking refers to one or two drinks per day, according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
Don’t skip a dose or stop taking Lexapro so that you could drink.
Lexapro requires a consistent, daily dose to build up in your body over time and work as intended.
In the long term, alcohol use can make depression and anxiety worse.This is because alcohol is a depressant.
They can provide advice on treatment options or refer you to appropriate care.
Summary
Lexapro is anSSRIthat treatsanxietyanddepression.
It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain to boost mood and minimize feelings of anxiety.
Alcohol can worsen symptoms of anxiety and depression, making the medication less effective.
If youre unsure about how Lexapro interacts with alcohol, kindly speak to your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
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9th Edition, Washington, DC; 2020.
