Citalopram and alcohol

[Choufleur]

I've just been prpescrived Citalopram. The leaflet advises not to drink but doesn't say don't. Anyone know whether I could have the ocassional drink?

Whilst I'm not bothered about drinking most of the time there are a few things that I'm going to during December, and obviously Christmas, that I would quite like to have a drink at - although not necessarily get drunk.

I have the odd drink on Citalopram, but it really is just that. I had a (large glass of wine on Saturday night) the previous Friday I had 2 gins (pub measure) 3 weeks before that I had 2 bottles of beer.

Best to cut back on alcohol anyway if you're taking it for depression.

Most medicines you're advised not to drink whilst taking them. With some it can be very dangerous.

The effect varies from person to person. My mum used to feel really ill if she drank whilst on anti-d's whereas I have always drank whilst taking psych meds mainly to no ill effect. I have been on them for a very long time though.

If you must drink take it easy and be aware that you might feel ill. Also be aware that alcohol is a depressant and you might find yourself feeling very depressed as well as having a hangover.

I used to have the odd drink while I was on this, but it made me feel much worse for the next few days if I had more than say 2 glasses of wine.

I also used to have incredibly vivid and not so pleasant dreams - was very random!

Thanks. I have been cutting down on drinking generally but would like to be able to have a few drinks with friends on special ocassions.

I've just been prescribed citalopram and the doc specifically mentioned this. As it's a depressant obviously drinking too much might negate the effect of the drug, but he did tell me that moderate drinking should be OK, and that he isn't aware of any general interactions.

As always though it will depend on the individual so YMMV.