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Can I drink alcohol with Sertraline ?

Posted , 2 users are following.

Avenger68
Avenger68

I am a new user of Sertraline (and anti-depressants in general) and just wondered what experience other users had about drinking any alcohol whilst on the drug ? I realise that leaflets say you shouldn't drink whilst on anti-depressants but my doctor had not stated 'absolutely no alcohol' when prescribing me these tablets but having read the accompanying leaflet with my prescription, I have started to wonder if I should lay off alcohol completely. Obviously, everything in moderation but I wondered what potential harmful effects there may be when combining the two ?

0 likes, 4 replies

4 Replies

  • coop46269
    coop46269 Avenger68

    Posted

    I asked my doctor this question and she said that one glass of wine would be OK. I had a pear cider the other day and I was totally fine. A friend of mine who is has been on Sertraline for a year is now ready to come off. She's been on a big nights out, and says the night itself is fine, but the next day will bring back anxiety/depression (for the next day or so).
    • Avenger68
      Avenger68 coop46269

      Posted

      Yes, thanks. Makes sense as alcohol is a depressant after all !
  • bellaseb
    bellaseb Avenger68

    Posted

    Hi Avenger68

    I've been on Sertraline (100mg) for almost 5 months & I've drank consistently throughout (as in, I haven't changed my normal drinking habits, which at times can be quite heavy). I have felt no different whilst drinking, and my hangovers have been the same as they were when I wasn't on the meds. Drinking doesn't make me feel more anxious either, and if you search this on the internet you will see that Sertraline is not a reactant with alcohol.

    I think the reason it is recommended that you don't drink on them is because if you are depressed, drinking can make you feel worse anyway - so if you're on anti-depressants, alcohol is best to avoid generally.

    Everyone will react differently though, and everyone's alcohol tolerance is different, so just be cautious and see how you go.

    Bella

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