sleeping tablets/ADs and alcohol

[longingforsomesleep]

Do I really have to avoid all alcohol when taking these? I've just been prescribed Zimovane (sleeping tablets - no more than 2 x a week) and Amitriptyline (low dose ADs daily) for insomnia. I do so enjoy a glass (or two) of wine with my evening meal but both lots of tablets say not to drink alcohol. Any thoughts?

I'm on 30mg of amitriptyline per night. I don't drink much, or often, but I have had the occasional glass of wine or baileys.

Alcohol is supposed to increase the sedative effect of the tablets. I personally haven't noticed a difference - I still wake if either DS cries in the night, etc.

I wouldn't, however, do it if DH was away, if I was co sleeping or if I had to drive early the next day - whilst I don't think that there is any difference in me and my ability to function I still wouldn't take the risk.

I have regularly drank alcohol with amytriptiline, zopiclone and duloxetine, it has never affected me more so than without Meds except in the first two weeks I was taking duloxetine.
Obviously it's very personal, depends on tolerance, frame of mind etc and I guess to be aware that as alcohol is a depressant it generally won't improve mood.

Thanks - that's interesting. I've been prescribed 10-20mg of amytriptiline a night so hopefully a glass of wine early evening will still be OK!