Posted by Greg on April 26, 2000, at 14:59:50
In reply to alcohol warnings, what reason/mechanism?, posted by Abby on April 26, 2000, at 14:24:09
Abby,
I don't claim to be an expert on the subject, but can share some of what I've learned over the years.First of all, I am a recovering alcoholic (13 years sober). Different people metabolize chemicals in different ways, sometimes drastically different. The introduction of alcohol into the system CAN turn these meds into various forms of poisons. These poisons can do anything from simply making a person dizzy to causing death.
I had a very dear friend who was taking Valium for a nervous condition. One night he went out drinking (I was told he only had 2 Screwdrivers). Shortly after being dropped off at home he went into convulsions and was taken to the ER where he died on the table. The doctor determined that because of his particular chemical makeup, the combo of the Valium (he had only taken the doctor recommended doseage) and the alcohol had caused his death. I miss him very much.
The warning labels are there for very good reasons, to protect us from life-threatening consequences. I know this is a pretty rare occurence, but if it could happen to my friend, it can happen to anybody.
I know that there's nothing worse than a recovering alcoholic preaching about the evils of alcohol, and I hope I'm not coming off that way. It's just that mixing drugs and alcohol is usually not a good idea.... especially if the label warns against it.
I hope this answers part of your questions, and remember I'm not an expert by a long shot, I'm just sharing my experience. All my best.
Peace,
Greg
> I was just wondering why two medications have different alcohol warnings.
>
> Let me just say that for the most part my drinking is very limited, only ever in social situations. Usually nothing more than a glass of wine, a beer or a drop of sherry.
> Occasionally at a party, usually on a warm summer night, I like to have a few drinks to the point of being slightly tipsy.
>
>
> I know that alcohol can act as a depressant and should probably be avoided by depressed people, though I only ever drink when I'm in a good mood. I do believe that SSRIs can enhance alcohol's effectiveness. I also know that
>
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> So, really what beyond the basic depressant issue is the reason for these alcohol warnings?
>
> The zoloft label says that alcoholic consumption should be limited. Risperdal, however, says that it is recommended that it is recommended to avoid alcohol beverages while taking this medication.
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> What are the interactions between zoloft and alcohol, and risperidone and alcohol? Must alcohol be completely avoided even if the risperidone dose is very low, 250 mcgs or less?
>
> Abby
poster:Greg
thread:31359
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20000420/msgs/31361.html