Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

Antidepressants and Alcohol Consumption

I was weaned off Lexapro and switched to Zoloft about 7 weeks ago.  My Zoloft intake was gradually increased to where I am now taking 200 mg for about 3 1/2 weeks now.  However, I am feeling the need to drink almost everyday to give me relief from anxiety and still depressive episodes such as crying spells.  My first question is- is the alcohol inhibiting the Zoloft from working to its ultimate capabilities?  Secondly, do you think I need to give the 200 mg more time to work since I've only been on this dosage for about 3 1/2 weeks.

Any advice would be helpful.  Thank you!
3 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
547573 tn?1234655710
Namaste,

Zoloft is an antidepressant in a group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Zoloft affects chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause depression, panic, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive symptoms.

Zoloft is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Zoloft may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects of Zoloft, which may include the symptoms you describe.

And, yes give it some more time to work. Up to six weeks may be needed for the maximum effects to be felt.

If, however, you feel that your symptoms are overly troublesome or concern you to such a degree that you obsess about them, you may want to consult witth your healthcare provider.

Michael(Jikan)
Helpful - 0
476009 tn?1211466989
My daughter's pdoc gave her this advice about drinking when taking an AD (she's on Lexapro).  She said that alcohol is a depressant and the effect can take three days to show up so people often don't realize that the depression they are feeling is because of the alcohol.  When you are taking an antidepressant you are doing the opposite of what you are trying to accomplish by using any depressant (in this case alcohol).

Food for thought.

Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Thank you guys for your input.  Your help and suggestions really means a lot to me.

Take care!
Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the Depression Community

Top Mood Disorders Answerers
Avatar universal
Arlington, VA
Learn About Top Answerers
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
15 signs that it’s more than just the blues
Discover the common symptoms of and treatment options for depression.
We've got five strategies to foster happiness in your everyday life.
Don’t let the winter chill send your smile into deep hibernation. Try these 10 mood-boosting tips to get your happy back
A list of national and international resources and hotlines to help connect you to needed health and medical services.
Herpes sores blister, then burst, scab and heal.