Lexapro and Alcohol: Is Drinking on Lexapro Safe?

What is Lexapro?

Lexapro is the brand name for escitalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat anxiety or depression. As a type of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, it works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. This helps improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety.

Doctors prescribe Lexapro for conditions like:

• Major depressive disorder
• Generalized anxiety disorder

Like other SSRIs, Lexapro can have side effects including nausea, dizziness, headaches, and sleep problems. These effects can be mild or more noticeable, depending on the person.

Is It Safe to Drink Alcohol with Lexapro?

The short answer: No, drinking on Lexapro is not considered safe. Generally, healthcare professionals advise against alcohol use during treatment with Lexapro.

Consuming alcohol while on Lexapro (escitalopram) can increase the risk of worsened side effects and may reduce the medication’s effectiveness. Because both alcohol and Lexapro affect the brain’s central nervous system, their combined effects can be unpredictable and potentially harmful.

Alcohol and Lexapro Interactions

When alcohol enters your system, it affects the central nervous system by slowing down brain activity. Lexapro also influences brain chemistry, particularly serotonin levels. Mixing the two can cause unpredictable reactions.

Some potential interactions include:

• Increased risk of dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired coordination
• Amplified sedation and slower reaction times
• Mood changes, including irritability and sadness
• A higher chance of suicidal thoughts in vulnerable individuals

Although rare, drinking heavily on SSRIs could potentially contribute to serotonin syndrome, a dangerous condition caused by too much serotonin in the brain.

Short-Term Risks of Mixing Alcohol with Lexapro

Even one or two drinks can affect you differently when you’re on Lexapro. Some immediate concerns include:

• Loss of coordination and balance
• Reduced ability to concentrate
• Slower reflexes
• Sudden mood swings

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), alcohol can impair judgment after just one drink, and when combined with certain medications, the effects may be much stronger.

Long-Term Risks of Drinking on Lexapro

While occasional drinking might seem harmless, long-term alcohol consumption while on Lexapro can lead to more serious issues:

• Effectiveness of Lexapro may decrease over time
• Higher likelihood of relapse in depression or anxiety symptoms
• Increased strain on the liver as it processes both alcohol and medication
• Possible development of alcohol use disorder

A 2021 survey by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration found that nearly 20 million U.S. adults experienced both a mental illness and a substance use disorder in the same year. This shows how mental health and alcohol misuse often overlap, creating greater health challenges.

Why Alcohol Can Make Depression Worse

Alcohol affects brain chemicals, including serotonin and dopamine. This can cause temporary feelings of pleasure but often leads to a crash afterward. For someone already dealing with anxiety or depression, this crash can increase the risk of mood swings, hopelessness, and even suicidal thoughts.

Lexapro is designed to improve mood stability. Mixing it with alcohol works against its intended purpose. Over time, this combination may make it harder for the medication to help.

How Much Alcohol is Too Much on Lexapro?

There is no universal “safe” amount of alcohol to drink while on Lexapro. Even small amounts can have worsened side effects depending on your body’s response. Factors that influence your tolerance include:

• Age and body weight
• Other medications you’re taking
• Pre-existing health conditions
• Frequency of alcohol consumption

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defines moderate drinking as one drink per day for women and two for men. However, when taking an SSRI, doctors often recommend avoiding alcohol entirely.

When to Seek Medical Help

You should talk to your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following after mixing Lexapro and alcohol:

• Severe dizziness or confusion
• Uncontrollable shaking or muscle spasms
• Intense mood swings or panic attacks
• Signs of suicidal thoughts or self-harm urges
• High fever, sweating, and agitation (possible signs of serotonin syndrome)

Early medical attention can prevent complications and help your doctor adjust your treatment plan if needed.

Treatment Programs and Support

Mixing alcohol with Lexapro may seem harmless, especially if you’ve done it before without noticeable effects. However, both short-term and long-term risks make the combination unsafe.

For some, difficulty avoiding alcohol may signal an underlying alcohol use disorder. This can be especially challenging when combined with anxiety or depression. Recovery is possible, and getting professional support can make a life-changing difference.

Scottsdale Detox and our other treatment centers in Scottsdale, Arizona, offer comprehensive, medically supervised care for people struggling with alcohol misuse and co-occurring mental health conditions. Our team offers safe detoxification, personalized treatment plans, and emotional support to help you start your recovery journey.

Reach out today and help us guide you toward lasting wellness and a healthier future.