HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Taking Citalopram, Donepezil And Bupropion For Brain Aneurysm. Is It Safe To Drink Alcohol?

default
Posted on Mon, 18 Feb 2013
Question: Hi, I am a 62 year old female who suffered a brain aneurism about two years ago.
I am currently taking Citalopram, Donepezil and Bupropion.
I have given up smoking and would enjoy a cocktail in the evening at home. Would it be OK?
Thank you.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Geoffrey Ward (1 hour later)
Hello and thank you for your question.

Citalopram and Bupropion enhance the CNS depression of Alcohol. If you are taking the medications for dementia then I would not recommend drinking any alcohol.

If you are taking the medications for other reasons, then use caution when alcohol. Do not go beyond one drink: a 12-ounce bottle or can of typical (5% ABV) beer a 5-ounce glass of typical (12% ABV) wine a 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof (40% ABV) liquor (either straight or in a mixed drink). Do not drive and do this in the safety of your own home. I would also consult with your doctor as well to see what he says. There are reasons why you are taking these medications that I may not be aware of and may contraindicate the use of alcohol.

I hope this answers your question. I will gladly assist you more if you have further questions.

Regards,

Dr. Ward

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
default
Follow up: Dr. Geoffrey Ward (6 hours later)
Thank you for the information Dr. Ward. I was hoping that a glass of wine once or twice a week would be alright. I'm usually at home at night watching TV or reading -
certainly not driving a car.

What do think about medicinal marijuana?

Regards,

XXXXXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Geoffrey Ward (7 hours later)
Hello and thank you for your response.

The glass of wine once or twice a week at home should not be a problem based solely on the medications you are taking. However, stay aware of exacerbated symptoms of intoxication and take note if a glass of wine is too much to handle.

Medicinal Marijuana is not recommended for patients taking antipsychotics and antidepressants. It could cause greater depression and paranoia.

Kind Regards

Dr. Ward
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Geoffrey Ward

Dentist

Practicing since :2011

Answered : 183 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Taking Citalopram, Donepezil And Bupropion For Brain Aneurysm. Is It Safe To Drink Alcohol?

Hello and thank you for your question.

Citalopram and Bupropion enhance the CNS depression of Alcohol. If you are taking the medications for dementia then I would not recommend drinking any alcohol.

If you are taking the medications for other reasons, then use caution when alcohol. Do not go beyond one drink: a 12-ounce bottle or can of typical (5% ABV) beer a 5-ounce glass of typical (12% ABV) wine a 1.5-ounce shot of 80-proof (40% ABV) liquor (either straight or in a mixed drink). Do not drive and do this in the safety of your own home. I would also consult with your doctor as well to see what he says. There are reasons why you are taking these medications that I may not be aware of and may contraindicate the use of alcohol.

I hope this answers your question. I will gladly assist you more if you have further questions.

Regards,

Dr. Ward