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Should I Avoid Drinking Alcohol With My Medication?

By Nancy Schimelpfening, About.com

Updated: August 24, 2006

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Steven Gans, MD

Question: Should I Avoid Drinking Alcohol With My Medication?

Answer: Alcohol is incompatible with many of the drugs used to treat depression. It can intensify the sedative effects of some antidepressants. Chronic alcohol consumption can increase the availability of some antidepressants while decreasing the availability of others. Tyramine, a substance found in beer and wine, can interact with MAOIs potentially causing a dangerous rise in blood pressure. Consult your physician or pharmacist for specific precautions regarding your own medications.

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