Paxil & Alcohol: Understanding the Risks

What Is Paxil (Paroxetine)?

Paxil (paroxetine) is FDA-approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and other mental health conditions.¹ Paxil belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) class of drugs that works by raising serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in influencing mood, memory, behavior, and emotions. By blocking the reabsorption of serotonin, Paxil helps patients experience symptom improvements.

Side Effects of Alcohol & Paxil

Both alcohol and Paxil may result in side effects which can range from mild to severe. Before consuming either substance, it is important to acknowledge associated risks. Consult with your doctor in order to better understand how these substances may impact your body.

Side effects of Paxil may include:²

• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Sweating
• Sleeping problems
• Appetite issues
• Sexual dysfunction
• Indigestion
• Nervousness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Confusion

Side effects of alcohol may include:

• Vomiting
• Loss of consciousness
• Impaired coordination
• Blackouts
• Alcohol poisoning
• Seizures
• Death

Paxil & Alcohol Interactions

Combining alcohol and Paxil can be life-threatening, as doing so can result in overdose or other severe side effects that require immediate medical intervention. Alcohol is a depressant that works differently than Paxil, an antidepressant. These substances have conflicting chemical components that make them extremely dangerous when used together. This can be particularly life-threatening for those with hangover anxiety (hangxiety), an anxious state experienced after consuming large amounts of alcohol.²

Both substances are broken down by the liver. However, how long this process takes depends on the amount of Paxil and alcohol consumed. Increased intake will increase the time needed for this process to occur, thus increasing either substances’ toxicity in the body. This can lead to symptoms like those of an overdose and death.

Severe side effects of Paxil and alcohol include:

• Mood swings
• Nausea
• Suicidal thoughts
• Trouble concentrating and making decisions
• Irregular heart rhythm
• Vision problems
• Vomiting
• Agitation
• Manic episodes

Can You Ever Drink While Taking Paxil?

A person who takes Paxil should not drink alcohol. Furthermore, skipping your medication to drink can still result in severe side effects, as it takes time for the active ingredients of Paxil to be entirely removed from a person’s system. Therefore, consuming alcohol during this time can result in adverse reactions as the time it takes for the effects of Paxil to end can take weeks or longer.³

Can Paxil & Alcohol Kill You?

How a person reacts to the consumption of alcohol with Paxil depends on their age, overall health condition, and how the substance interacts with their body. Regardless, combining the two can result in symptoms like those of an overdose and sudden death. This is especially likely for those who engage in binge drinking.⁴

Symptoms of a Paxil & Alcohol Overdose

Overdosing on Paxil and alcohol is a very real possibility, as continued alcohol intake will result in Paxil buildup in the body and toxicity. If you are experiencing symptoms of an overdose, contact medical assistance or visit the nearest emergency room immediately.

Symptoms of a Paxil and alcohol overdose may include:

• Breathing problems
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Increased sweating
• Nausea

Questions to Ask Your Health Team

Before starting Paxil, it is important to understand the associated safety and health concerns. Failing to recognize how alcohol interacts with Paxil can put your life in great danger. Reach out to your physician to ask questions about possible side effects and how to handle them, should they occur.

Questions to ask your care team include:

• Is there an alternative medication that will not interact with alcohol?
• What should I do if I drink anyway?
• What should I do if I overdose on Paxil and alcohol?
• Apart from alcohol, what other substances should I avoid when taking Paxil?
• How will I know I have overdosed on Paxil and alcohol?

Final Thoughts

Paxil is effective for relieving symptoms of depression, but can become toxic when combined with substances such as alcohol. Before considering a Paxil prescription, consult with your doctor to ensure you are well-informed of any potential risks or adverse reactions.