Why is alcohol + antidepressants a bad mix?


Question:
What's the science behind it?

Answers:
Alcohol depresses centers in the brain. (One of the centers it depresses provides self-control, which is why when you drink you do stupid things. Your normal self-control has been depressed).

It may counteract the effect of your anti-depressant drugs, allowing your underlying depression to worsen. Combined with the reduction in self-control, you might become suicidal.

Alcohol is a drug; and the combination of any two drugs can have serious health consequences.
Alcohol is incompatible with many of the drugs used to treat depression. It can intensify the sedative effects of some antidepressants. Chronic alcohol consumption can increase the availability of some antidepressants while decreasing the availability of others. Tyramine, a substance found in beer and wine, can interact with MAOIs potentially causing a dangerous rise in blood pressure. Consult your physician or pharmacist for specific precautions regarding your own medications.


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