Zoloft And Alcohol?

[NicG]

So I've just gone back on Zoloft for anxiety because all the usual grounding techniques etc aren't working as well as I'd like. The last time I was on it I wasn't 18 yet and therefore didn't touch alcohol.

But... now I'm 20 and going out and drinking with my friends is a fun part of life (not getting drunk, just enjoying a few while I'm out). And my 21st is in a month. Is drinking plus Zoloft a really bad idea or is it only bad if you overdo it?

I'll ask my psych/doctor when I see them but I thought I'd ask here for some personal experience :)

 

[FindingMyself88]

I drank some while on Zoloft. Now mind you, I never drank more than 2-3 coolers a night or one heavy drink. The only problem I had is I would get a headache. However, Zoloft caused me to have headaches also if I forgot to take it one day and I have had a serious head injury, so I am just prone to headaches. Otherwise I had no ill affects.. I think it's just about learning how zoloft affects you on a daily basis. It will be magnified while drinking.

 

[cherryblossom]

Alcohol is not listed as a contraindication, or even a caution, with regards to Sertraline (Zoloft).

From a couple of different (reliable) sources

• Drinking alcohol can increase certain side effects of Zoloft.
• Sedative effects possibly increased when SSRIs given with alcohol

When I took sertraline, I still drank alcohol and it had no effect on me. I would suggest just taking it slowly, and seeing if mixing the 2 causes you any adverse affects, because we're all different.

 

[NicG]

Oh! Okay thanks!! I guess I'll just try it out slowly somewhere close to home to see how it goes. Hopefully it won't be a big deal!
That makes me feel a lot better about being on it again. :)