Medication with serotonin such as Zoloft should not be mixed with alcohol. However, some people who suffer from depression might mix a medication such as Zoloft and alcohol in the mistaken belief that it will help their mood. They might also do it since they are not aware that these substances should not be mixed.
There are a number of side effects of mixing Zoloft and alcohol. For example, alcohol and Zoloft together can cause sedation, dizziness, difficulty concentrating and even anxiety and suicidal ideation. Some doctors recommend that people with depression not consume alcohol altogether since it depresses the central nervous system.
I’m addition, the Mayo Clinic states that serotonin syndrome is a serious drug reaction that takes place when too much serotonin from medications such as Zoloft, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants builds up in the body. Mayo does not mention alcohol contributing to serotonin syndrome but says the condition itself can cause death if not treated.
