Antibiotics and alcohol can cause similar side effects, such as stomach upset, dizziness and drowsiness. Combining antibiotics and alcohol can increase these side effects. Keep in mind that some cold medicines and mouthwashes also contain alcohol. So check the label and avoid such products while taking these antibiotics.
It’s best to avoid combining antidepressants and alcohol. It may worsen your symptoms, and it can be dangerous. Don’t stop taking an antidepressant or other medication just so that you can drink. Most antidepressants require taking a consistent, daily dose to maintain a constant level in your system and work as intended. Stopping and starting your medications can make your depression worse.
Mixing antidepressants and alcohol can result in:
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Alcohol alters serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, or chemical, used by the brain to regulate mood, and imbalances in serotonin are thought to cause mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that causes brain activity to slow down. Alcohol has sedative effects that can induce feelings of relaxation and sleepiness2, but the consumption of alcohol – especially in excess – has been linked to poor sleep quality and duration. Drinking alcohol before bed can add to the suppression of REM sleep during the first two cycles. Since alcohol is a sedative, sleep onset is often shorter for drinkers and some fall into a deep sleep rather quickly. As the night progresses, this can create an imbalance between slow-wave sleep and REM sleep, resulting in less of the latter and more of the former. This decreases overall sleep quality, which can result in shorter sleep duration and more sleep disruptions.
Medications for sleeping problems such as Ambien (zolpidem), Lunesta (eszopiclone), Sominex (diphenhydramine, Unisom (doxylamine) when mixed with alcohol can results in drowsiness, slowed or difficulty breathing, impaired motor control, and memory problems.
Pain (such as muscle ache, minor arthritis pain), fever, inflammation medications such as Advil (Ibuprofen), Aleve (naproxen), Excedrin (aspirin, acetaminophen), Motrin (ibuprofen), Tylenol (acetaminophen) when mixed with alcohol can result in the following reactions: stomach upset, bleeding and ulcers; liver damage (acetaminophen); rapid heartbeat
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