4 Adverse Side Effects of Mixing Zoloft and Alcohol

Zoloft is a prescribed medication used to treat depression, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. It is the most prescribed antidepressant. It works by using serotonin available in the brain.

Alcohol affects the brain’s normal functioning, which means an alcoholic taking Zoloft will experience worse side effects since both affect the central nervous system. Zoloft has its side effects, including headache, dizziness, suicidal thoughts, and others. Alcohol is a depressant, and combining the two will increase these adverse side effects. Here are four diverse side effects of mixing Zoloft and alcohol.

Possible Respiratory Distress

Alcohol affects the upper and the lower parts of the respiratory system, which means an alcoholic is at risk of lung issues and other breathing problems. Zoloft, on the other hand, can cause severe allergic reactions such as trouble breathing. Combining the two can cause severe breathing problems.

Since both alcohol and Zoloft affect brain functioning, an alcoholic taking Zoloft will have oversedation, which can be dangerous, it causes breathing problems or death. Therefore, it is good to avoid taking alcohol entirely while taking Zoloft.

Can Cause Migraine Headache

Zoloft, an antidepressant, has several side effects, and headaches are among them. It occurs within the first few weeks after starting the medication. Alcohol is a depressant and also causes headaches. Therefore, an alcoholic taking Zoloft will have this side effect worsened.

You can learn to tolerate headaches when taking Zoloft because it will stop with time, but when you mix it with alcohol, the headache will get severe and life-threatening. Speak to your doctor if you are using alcohol and Zoloft simultaneously to get professional assistance.

Increased Suicidal Thoughts

Every antidepressant comes with a warning that its use can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Since alcoholics suffer from depression, they are at high risk of suicide. Therefore, if you have an alcoholic is vital to stay alert on the signs of committing suicide or self-harm.

An alcoholic using Zoloft will have this suicidal behavior and thoughts worsened and should be closely monitored for suicidal thoughts regardless of age. The combination of alcohol and Zoloft can be life-threatening.

Increased Risk of Sedation

Both alcohol and Zoloft cause drowsiness; combined, these effects can be intense. Although, generally, it is best to stop taking alcohol when you are under medication if you have trouble quitting alcohol use, seek professional guidance rather than discontinuing your medication.

If you are an alcoholic using Zoloft, you can suffer from oversedation, which means performing routine work is affected. You can not drive or operate machines which may affect your profession.

You can benefit from counseling and treatment programs if you are at risk of alcohol abuse or join support groups that can help you overcome the alcohol abuse. It is important to seek all help possible to live everyday life.

To Sum It Up

It is best to stop using alcohol when taking medications to get well quickly. Seek professional help when necessary. The effects of using alcohol alongside medication have more effects than said. It would be hard to tell if the condition under treatment is responding to the drugs or not. Therefore, abstaining from alcohol is the best option for your mental health.