AD and alcohol

Does anyone understand the science behind the recommendation that one not take ADs (in my case, Lexapro) and drink alcohol?   Is it just that alcohol is a depressant and there is no point in taking one drug that depresses you and other that tries to un-depresss you?  Or is there a biochemistry issue, such as a synergistic impact on specific receptors (as there is with benzos)?

Reason I ask?  I am on a low dose of Lexapro.  Despite contrary recommendations, I have been drinking a little.  Usually only one drink a night -- not every night -- and NEVER more than two drinks in a night.  Does not seem to have an adverse impact, as best I can tell.  And I really do very much enjoy my glass of red wine...   But of course I do not want to damage my health.  So I would like to understand the science a bit, so I can make a well informed judgment. 

You said in your other thread that you reduced your dose of lexapro and that you felt you needed more but don't want the side effects. Why don't you try going without any alcohol for a week and see if you feel better even with the reduced dose of lexapro. Otherwise, I would suggest talking to the psychiatrist about it. I do know red wine has antioxidants in it. Which are good for you and a little glass a day isnt that bad, but with depression, it is still a depressant and can make your depression worse. I hope you get it all sorted out. I am sorry that alcohol can make you depressed. But I would try going without for a week, the five mg of lexapro might help you. My husband took it but started out at ten. I think that is the usual starting dose. What kind of side effects do you get from it? Is there something that could counteract them?

I hope that you feel better soon.

Hugs, Karen

The answer to your question is essentially both.

At the very least alcohol will reduce the effectiveness of your medication....regardless of what you are taking.