Can I take Sertraline and Alcohol together?

Why this happens

Sertraline and alcohol both affect the central nervous system (the brain). When taken together, they have an 'additive effect', meaning they enhance each other's sedative properties. Alcohol can also interfere with how the brain processes serotonin, the chemical that sertraline is designed to balance.

What you should do

It is best to avoid drinking alcohol altogether while taking sertraline, especially when you first start the medication or if your dose has recently increased. If you do choose to drink, keep it to a very small amount, drink slowly with food, and be aware that one drink may affect you much more strongly than usual. Do not drive or operate machinery if you have been drinking.

Important precautions

Depression and anxiety disorders

You may experience an increase in suicidal thoughts or the urge to self-harm when first starting sertraline or changing the dose. This is more common in young adults under 25. Contact your doctor or go to hospital immediately if you notice any changes in your mood or behaviour.

Serotonin Syndrome

Sertraline can cause a life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome, especially if taken with other medicines that affect serotonin (such as triptans, tramadol, or St John's Wort). Seek urgent medical help if you experience agitation, hallucinations, fast heartbeat, or severe muscle stiffness.

Bleeding disorders

Sertraline can increase your risk of bleeding, particularly from the stomach. Use with caution if you take blood-thinning medicines (like warfarin) or anti-inflammatory painkillers (like ibuprofen or aspirin), as this significantly increases the risk of serious bleeding.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking sertraline. Combining alcohol with this medicine can increase side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. It may also make your depression or anxiety symptoms worse.

Grapefruit juice

You should avoid drinking large amounts of grapefruit juice while taking sertraline. Grapefruit can increase the level of sertraline in your blood, which may increase the risk of side effects.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.