It is generally not recommended to drink alcohol while taking sertraline (also known as Zoloft). Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects from sertraline such as drowsiness, dizziness, difficulty concentrating, nausea, and increased risk of mood worsening or suicidal behavior. The FDA strongly advises avoiding alcohol entirely while on sertraline because alcohol may worsen both the side effects of the medication and the underlying condition it is prescribed to treat. If drinking does occur, it should be done with caution and under medical advice, but complete avoidance is safest.
Effects of Drinking Alcohol on Sertraline
- Alcohol combined with sertraline can increase drowsiness, dizziness, and impair thinking and reactions.
- There can be exacerbation of sertraline side effects such as nausea, tremor, and excessive sweating.
- Alcohol can worsen depression symptoms and increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior.
- Mixing the two can lead to dangerous complications like serotonin syndrome in severe cases.
Medical Recommendations
- The FDA and healthcare providers typically recommend avoiding any alcoholic beverages while taking sertraline.
- If a person chooses to drink, it should be minimal and done only after consulting a healthcare professional.
- Medical supervision and advice are important if encountering any adverse effects after drinking alcohol on sertraline.
In summary, while a "0mg" dose of sertraline likely means no active medication, if referring to sertraline use generally, alcohol consumption is best avoided. If this is about taking sertraline medication, it is safest not to drink alcohol due to the increased risk of side effects and harmful interactions.
