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38 years
I take seroxate daily, is it okay to have an alcoholic drink sometimes?
Aug 7, 2014
2nd opinion

Dr. Zakia Dimassi Pediatrics
The manufacturers of Seroxat (Paroxetine) as well as many healthcare providers, usually recommends avoiding alcohol use all together while on treatment, because both alcohol and Paroxetine both act on the central nervous system-active (CNS-active). These two substances are even believed to act on the same brain chemicals/receptors. Combining paroxetine and alcohol may enhance the effects of alcohol, possibly causing an increase in symptoms of depression; disturbance in motor skills; or impairment in thinking and judgment.
Consuming alcohol moderately while on paroxetine is still, however, considered acceptable. Generally, some patients can safely drink moderate amounts of alcoholic beverages. Depending on your condition, your doctor may advise you to cut down on alcohol intake to light to moderate amounts, and only if you are already familiar with/used to the effects of Paroxetine on your body, and if your condition is well-controlled.
The extent to which risks associated with alcohol drinking may affect people varies from person to person. For patients with the diagnosis of depression and other emotional conditions, alcohol can impart negative effects and may even alter the treatment goal. Excessive amounts of alcohol can give a false sense of feeling better which can mask emotional symptoms of the condition, thus exacerbations of depression may go unnoticed. Alcohol can also suppress anxiety and numb physical symptoms. The positive reinforcement given by alcohol can cause craving for it instead of drug. In addition, simultaneously taking Paroxetine and alcohol can also cause more severe hangovers.
While on Paroxetine, you should avoid alcohol as much as possible. If you decide to drink alcohol, you should be aware of some safety considerations to avoid possible adverse effects.
• Limit your alcohol intake to moderate amounts: not more than one drink per day, for women, and two drinks per day, for men. Be aware of the alcohol content of alcoholic beverages: you should limit your consumption of beer to only 330 ml, wine to 140 ml, and whiskey to 28 ml.
• Always consult your healthcare provider for specific recommendations.
• Before you start drinking alcohol, make sure that you are fully aware of how Paroxetine affects your body. Do not binge drink (drink huge amounts at once). Drink slowly to see how it affects your body and notice any unusual/abnormal symptoms. Avoid driving or operating machinery or appliances if you have drunk.
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