Can you drink alcohol while taking citalopram? (+7 dangers)

In this article, we will discuss the use of alcohol while taking Citalopram, the associated risks, and the necessary steps that should be taken if alcohol is accidentally consumed while taking Citalopram.

Can you drink alcohol while taking Citalopram?

Alcohol should be avoided when taking Citalopram (Celexa). The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has strictly advised against the use of alcohol and citalopram together, as combining the two can potentially increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, impaired coordination, and serotonin syndrome.

Both alcohol and Citalopram are metabolized by the liver and can pose a serious risk to the liver when taken together, particularly in patients with hepatic insufficiency (1).

It is crucial for patients to avoid consuming this combination due to the potentially severe consequences. If you do choose to drink, seek medical advice from your healthcare provider as they can provide guidance tailored to your specific condition.

Dangers of drinking alcohol while taking Citalopram

It is important to avoid taking alcohol while taking Citalopram due to the significant increase in the risk of side effects such as:

Serious side effects

QT prolongation: Combining Citalopram and alcohol can prolong the QT interval, increasing the risk of various heart rhythm abnormalities. Several factors, including genetics, dosage, pre-existing heart conditions, age, and potential drug-drug interactions can influence this effect.

While the risk of QT prolongation exists, it doesn’t affect everyone who combines Citalopram and alcohol, and the risk is higher with higher Citalopram doses and excessive alcohol consumption. To minimize this risk, it’s advisable to avoid alcohol or use it with guidance from your healthcare provider to ensure your safety during treatment (3).

Serotonin syndrome: The combination of alcohol and Citalopram can lead to serotonin syndrome, which can cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe, including agitation, confusion, rapid heart rate, increased body temperature, shivering, muscle stiffness, and even life-threatening complications that can result in serious consequences such as organ failure and even death (2).

Potential Liver damage: The long-term use of alcohol with Citalopram can significantly increase the risk of liver damage. However, it’s important to note that not everyone who takes Citalopram and alcohol together will necessarily develop liver damage.

The risk may exist, and it becomes more significant for certain populations such as Individuals with preexisting liver conditions, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, as well as the elderly and those with compromised liver function due to other medical conditions.

Healthcare providers should exercise caution when prescribing Citalopram to patients with known liver issues and regularly monitor liver function (5).

Suicidal thoughts: Individuals suffering from depression who take Citalopram are already at a high risk of experiencing suicidal tendencies. Adding alcohol to the mix only worsens the situation by intensifying depression and increasing the likelihood of suicidal thoughts (6).

Mild side effects:

GIT irritation: Combining alcohol with Citalopram can increase the risk of GIT irritation. This is because alcohol irritates the gastrointestinal lining, while Citalopram is associated with gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

The level of gastrointestinal discomfort may vary depending on factors such as sensitivity, dosage, and individual variation. People with a history of gastrointestinal issues may be more susceptible to these irritants.

Additionally, each person’s body can react differently to the combination, so what causes discomfort in one person may not affect another in the same way.

Increased sedation and drowsiness: Both alcohol and Citalopram can cause sedation and drowsiness. When taken together they can cause a heightened risk of drowsiness, dizziness, and falls.

Negative effects on mood and mental health: Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, so it can worsen the symptoms of depression and anxiety for which Citalopram is prescribed, rendering it ineffective.

Impaired cognitive functions: The simultaneous use of both alcohol and Citalopram can lead to cognitive impairment, affecting memory and decision-making abilities. This effect is intensified when these substances are taken together (4).

What to do if you have accidentally taken alcohol with Citalopram?

If you have accidentally taken alcohol with Citalopram, it will not significantly harm you. Drinking alcohol once or twice will not cause any serious reaction. However, if you experience any unusual symptoms such as dizziness, drowsiness, or sedation after taking it, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider as soon as possible.

Symptomatic treatment may be necessary in cases of adverse effects, such as serotonin syndrome, which may require administering medications to control agitation, high body temperature, or seizures based on the severity of the symptoms.

Similarly, adverse effects like gastrointestinal irritation or QT prolongation may require treatment such as taking medication for your stomach, nausea, or heart as required. In case of a suspected Citalopram overdose and alcohol consumption, it is important to seek medical emergency services right away.

It’s essential to provide your medical practitioner with all the necessary information regarding your Citalopram and alcohol consumption, such as the dosage of Citalopram, the amount of alcohol taken, and any symptoms you may be experiencing.

Being honest with your healthcare provider will help them provide appropriate healthcare and treatment.

Symptoms of an overdose of Citalopram and alcohol

An overdose of Celexa and alcohol can lead to a range of severe symptoms, including:

• nausea
• sleep disturbances
• hyperventilation
• sweating
• sedation
• vomiting
• diarrhea
• irregular heart rate

If you experience any of these symptoms after taking citalopram with alcohol, seek medical attention immediately.

Recommendations for individuals taking Citalopram

For the safe and effective use of Citalopram, it’s important to follow these recommendations:

• Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Citalopram to prevent any adverse effects. If you do choose to drink, please keep it moderate and inform your healthcare provider.
• Do not increase the dose of Citalopram without consulting your healthcare provider to avoid any potential risks.
• Abruptly stopping Citalopram may lead to withdrawal symptoms, so follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
• If you experience any side effects, inform your healthcare provider immediately to ensure your well-being.
• Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider will help monitor your progress and address any concerns that arise.

Consultation with healthcare professionals and personalized advice

It is critical to consult with a qualified healthcare professional if you are contemplating drinking alcohol while taking Citalopram. By doing so, you can receive tailored guidance that will enable you to make informed decisions that prioritize your health and well-being.

Do not take any unnecessary risks to your health. Take the first step towards making the most appropriate choices for your body and mind.

Conclusion

In this article, we have discussed the concomitant use of alcohol and Citalopram. Additionally, we have explored the potential dangers associated with consuming alcohol while taking Citalopram. We have also covered the necessary steps that should be taken if you have accidentally taken this combination.

References