Seroquel and Alcohol
Alcohol use and Seroquel can be a dangerous combination, and patients taking Seroquel should be educated about the possible effects.
Can I Drink While on Seroquel?
Most doctors recommend that patients who have a mental illness, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, not drink at all. The alcohol can trigger depressive states and some patients may turn to alcohol to self medicate. It is also strongly suggested that patients taking Seroquel not partake in alcohol at all. Some patients may choose to discuss their alcohol consumption with their doctor, and the doctor may agree to a moderate or minimal intake of alcohol because the effects may not be life threatening.
Seroquel patients should discuss their alcohol intake with their doctor to ensure that they are being safe.
What is Moderate Drinking?
In cases where drinking is permitted, Seroquel patients should only drink moderately. Moderate drinking varies for everyone. For most men it is two drinks a day, while for women it is one drink a day. One drink consists of eight ounces of beer, five ounces of wine or one and a half ounces of eighty proof whiskey. If the whiskey is one hundred proof then only one ounce is considered a drink.
It is important for Seroquel users to monitor their alcohol intake because while taking Seroquel, the affects of alcohol can be extremely increased. An excess of alcohol can be very dangerous in Seroquel patients.
Seroquel and Alcohol Interaction
Side effects associated with Seroquel can be increased when taken with alcohol. Side effects such as drowsiness and low blood pressure can pose a risk to the patient’s life. The side effects of alcohol are also increased by drinking with Seroquel. Cognitive abilities and motor skills can be greatly affected leaving the patient much more inebriated than they expected. That is why it is important that Seroquel patients monitor their drinking if they choose to drink at all. If patients choose to drink they should not do so alone as there may be other adverse effects.
Forms of Alcohol to Avoid
The majority of doctors will tell Seroquel patients to avoid alcohol all together. However, few people realize that there are medications that contain alcohol. These may affect the body, even if it is just a small amount. Some nasal sprays contain alcohol, as well as most medications used to treat colds. Any medications that may cause drowsiness should be closely monitored while taking Seroquel. If patients have a concern about a certain medication they should talk with their doctor before taking the medication.
Seroquel and alcohol can cause dangerous effects on the body when mixed. Patients should carefully discuss their alcohol consumption with their health care provider to ensure that the safest path is chosen. Those who choose to drink alcohol while on Seroquel should closely monitor their symptoms and never drink alone in case of emergency.
