Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
Does Lexapro Affect The Liver In The Long Run?
What are the effects on the liver if I have been taking Lexapro for about 2 years. I do drink a least one beer a week day and about five to six on a weekend. I am 61 years old and in excellent physical condition running 3 miles per day and weight lifting every other day. I also play golf once a week. Thanks, Mike
Tue, 31 Dec 2019
Hello,
Lexapro is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed to treat anxiety and major depression.
Its common side effects include diarrhea, drowsiness, decreased libido, dry mouth and fatigue. On prolonged use it may cause liver dysfunction (abnormal liver function tests).
When taken along with alcohol or alcohol-containing beverages, it may increase side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, difficulty concentrating, impaired thinking, judgment, and motor coordination.
Besides, alcohol consumption itself can damage liver so it may further add to the liver toxicity if taken with Lexapro.
You should, therefore:
1. Avoid or limit the use of alcohol while being treated with Lexapro.
2. Do not use more than the recommended dose of Lexapro.
3. Avoid driving or engaging in potentially hazardous activities requiring mental alertness after drinking.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Take care
Regards,
Dr. Mohammed Taher Ali, General & Family Physician
Lexapro is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed to treat anxiety and major depression.
Its common side effects include diarrhea, drowsiness, decreased libido, dry mouth and fatigue. On prolonged use it may cause liver dysfunction (abnormal liver function tests).
When taken along with alcohol or alcohol-containing beverages, it may increase side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, difficulty concentrating, impaired thinking, judgment, and motor coordination.
Besides, alcohol consumption itself can damage liver so it may further add to the liver toxicity if taken with Lexapro.
You should, therefore:
1. Avoid or limit the use of alcohol while being treated with Lexapro.
2. Do not use more than the recommended dose of Lexapro.
3. Avoid driving or engaging in potentially hazardous activities requiring mental alertness after drinking.
Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Take care
Regards,
Dr. Mohammed Taher Ali, General & Family Physician
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Loading Online Doctors....