The Effects of Alcohol & Lexapro

Sometimes people can experience the "blues" from time to time. When these "blues" do not seem to go away within a few weeks, it may be something more. It could be depression. Depression affects people in many ways. It may begin to affect your social activities, interests, work and family life. Depression is a serious condition, but it can be treated. One way to treat depression is by taking Lexapro.

What is Lexapro?

• Lexapro is a common drug used for conditions that deal with major depression. Major depression is a steadily low mood that hinders day-to-day functioning. Lexapro can also be used to treat generalized anxiety disorder.

Alcohol

• According to Depression.emedtv.com, drinking alcohol while taking Lexapro is not recommended. When alcohol and Lexapro are combined, Lexapro can potentially boost the effects of the alcohol.

Precautions

• If you do decide to drink while on Lexapro, you must take precautions. You should drink only a very small amount of alcohol. A small amount is considered one drink daily for women and two drinks daily for men.

Amounts

• According to Depression.emedtv.com, the drinks listed below are examples of one alcoholic drink:

  • 12 ounces of beer
  • 5 ounces of wine
  • 1½ ounces of 80-proof whiskey or 1 ounce of 100-proof spirits

What Should You Do?

• If you are showing signs of depression, you should go to see a medical professional as soon as possible. It is a serious issue that should be addressed. Lexapro does not work for everyone, and if you do drink, you should discuss this with your doctor.