Side Effects of Paxil With Alcohol

What is Paxil?

Paxil is used to help correct certain mood disorders. It restores the balance of serotonin in the brain. According to Drugs.com, Paxil is used to treat conditions like depression, anxiety and post traumatic stress disorder.

Drugs.com claims that Paxil has several known side effects. Paxil can induce thoughts of suicide, especially for individuals younger than age 24. The drug can exacerbate mood changes and period of anxiety. It can also cause insomnia, angriness and bouts of aggression. Less serious side effects include nervous feelings, nausea, dizziness and dry mouth.

Drugs.com warns against ingesting alcohol when you are on Paxil, as it can worsen some of the drug's side effects. Paxil can already cause side effects that thwart your reaction time and ability to think. These are also side effects of alcohol, so combining the two may lead to especially muddied thoughts.

Prescription Drug Information warns against operating heavy machinery or driving before you know the effect that Paxil will have on your system. Once you adjust to the drug and know its effect on your thought process, it should be OK to perform normal activities. Because alcohol can increase the side effects, you should avoid any of these activities if you drink when on the drug, even if you have become used to the drug's normal effects on your system.

If you are concerned about alcohol's interaction with Paxil, be sure to talk to your doctor. He can provide information on the potential side effects of Paxil use and alcohol consumption. He will let you know what, if any, level of alcohol consumption is safe when taken with this drug. If you do drink while on your medication, be sure to talk to your doctor if you experience any of the aforementioned side effects.