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Risks of Drinking Alcohol While on Effexor

According to drug maker Wyeth, people taking its antidepressant Effexor should not consume alcohol. In recent years, the company has revised the language on its labeling to make this increasingly clear. Several risks are associated with drinking while taking Effexor, but the Mayo Clinic suggests that, with care, there may be a way for light-to-moderate drinking.

  1. Updated Labeling

    • In 2006, the maker of Effexor updated its labeling to warn of the possibility of an overdose, especially if the drug is combined with alcohol. The symptoms of an Effexor overdose because of alcohol include pupil dilation, vomiting, fast heart rate, sleepiness, coma and seizures.

    Abstinence Recommended

    • The Mayo Clinic gives several reasons why those taking antidepressants should avoid drinking alcohol, the most obvious being that alcohol can make the user feel more depressed. In addition, alcohol with Effexor can make the user even more intoxicated than usual, and the alcohol can enhance any negative side effects already felt from the antidepressants.

    Don't Halt Dosages

    • The Mayo Clinic advises Effexor users not to stop taking the medication in order to drink alcohol. Halting Effexor suddenly can increase depression and lead to side effects and withdrawal. If a user forgets to take Effexor after drinking alcohol, he or she should resume dosages as normal but not take a double dose.

    Possible Exceptions

    • According to the Mayo Clinic, people taking antidepressants may be able to drink lightly or moderately. Effexor users should talk to their doctor about their desire to consume alcohol once in a while. If carefully monitored, people taking antidepressants could be able to drink alcohol within reason.

    How to Control Intake

    • People taking antidepressants should stick with weaker drinks that last longer; for example, beer or a wine spritzer as opposed to mixed drinks and shots. In addition, antidepressant users should let people close to them know about their goals so they have help staying in line. While the responsibility is ultimately the user's, this may help steer away free shots.

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