Why you shouldn’t mix Zoloft and alcohol

Written by Brandon Okey. Mina Draskovic, B.Psy., reviewed this content for accuracy.

The combination of alcohol and Zoloft is more dangerous than you think. This common type of polysubstance abuse may cause negative interactions and side effects, worsen mental health, and trigger an overdose. Even an occasional drink while on Zoloft can amplify the medication’s side effects (e.g., dizziness and mood swings) and reduce its effectiveness in treating depression or anxiety.

If you struggle with addiction to alcohol and antidepressants such as Zoloft, Ardu provides expert alcohol rehab services. Our tailored programs address the physical and mental challenges of addiction, so you can regain control and move forward with confidence.

Why do people mix alcohol with Zoloft?

Zoloft, also known by its generic name sertraline, is an antidepressant medication. It belongs to a class of drugs called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. Zoloft is commonly used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

Despite warnings from healthcare professionals, many people engage in polysubstance abuse by drinking while on Zoloft. This dangerous combination is surprisingly common. People mix alcohol with antidepressants for different reasons.

Social pressure: People often mix Zoloft and alcohol to fit in at social gatherings. It’s challenging to explain why you’re not drinking, especially when everyone else is. The fear of standing out or being seen as ‘different’ often overrides concerns about medication interactions.
Unawareness of risks: Many individuals are simply unaware of how dangerous mixing Zoloft and alcohol can be.
Self-medication: Depression is an overwhelming medical condition, and sometimes Zoloft’s effects aren’t felt quickly enough. People turn to alcohol to numb emotional pain or elevate their mood faster.
Enhancing effects: Some people believe alcohol will amplify Zoloft’s anti-anxiety effects. They might think the combination will lead to greater relaxation or mood improvement.
Escape: When life becomes too much to handle, the combination of Zoloft and alcohol is an effective way to disconnect. Albeit a dangerous coping mechanism, it provides temporary relief from stress, anxiety, or overwhelming emotions.
Habit: For many, drinking is deeply ingrained in their daily routine. The familiarity of having a drink after work or with dinner can be hard to break, even when on antidepressants.
Coping with side effects: Zoloft can cause unwanted side effects such as insomnia, decreased libido, or fatigue. Some people use alcohol to counteract these effects, hoping to sleep better or feel more energized.
Downplaying risks: Many underestimate the danger, thinking, “A little alcohol won’t hurt.” They might believe their tolerance is high enough to handle the mix or that occasional use isn’t problematic.

None of these reasons make mixing Zoloft and alcohol a good idea. If you’re struggling with this combo, talk to a doctor or seek professional help.

At Ardu, we don’t just treat addiction—we help you rediscover your strength and purpose. Our approach to alcohol and drug rehab blends cutting-edge science with compassionate care to guide you through detox and beyond as you build a life you’re excited to live.

Is it safe to drink alcohol on Zoloft?

While it might seem harmless to have a drink or two while on antidepressants, the reality is far more serious. Zoloft, like other SSRIs, works by altering brain chemistry to manage depression and anxiety. Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that affects many neurotransmitter systems in the brain. When they interact, they can create a perfect storm of negative effects on your physical and mental health.

The combination of alcohol and Zoloft doesn’t just contribute to individual effects; it creates new, more severe problems that neither substance causes alone. A 2024 study indicates that SSRIs such as sertraline may increase alcohol consumption in people who struggle with early-onset or severe alcohol use disorders (AUDs).

Even if you’ve been on Zoloft for a while and feel stable, adding alcohol to the mix can disrupt the delicate brain and entire body balance. Zoloft and alcohol use:

Dangerously amplifies side effects: What might normally be mild drowsiness or slight dizziness can become extreme fatigue and severe vertigo.
Worsens depression: Alcohol’s depressant nature can not only counteract Zoloft’s antidepressant effects but plunge you into a deeper depressive state. Binge drinking disrupts the balance of neurotransmitters that Zoloft is trying to regulate, so the mix increases feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and anxiety, which can undermine the progress made through medication and therapy.
Destabilizes your mood: The combination of booze and Zoloft can trigger intense mood swings—from crushing anxiety to deep depression, or even sudden, uncharacteristic aggression.
Raises the risk of serotonin syndrome: This potentially fatal condition is caused by excessive serotonin levels. According to Medical News Today, both substances boost serotonin in the brain, whose combination may lead to high fever, seizures, hallucinations, irregular heartbeat, and even coma.
Can cause pathological intoxication: This dangerous condition is characterized by exaggerated or altered responses to alcohol, including disinhibition, violence, and memory impairment, even with modest amounts of alcohol. According to a 2011 Pharmaceutical Journal article, this combination counteracts the antidepressant’s benefits and causes unpredictable interactions.
Puts excessive strain on your liver: Alcohol alone stresses the liver, but this combination amplifies the strain. Drinking too much while taking antidepressants can overwhelm the liver’s ability to process toxins, causing liver toxicity or long-term damage over time.
Intensifies suicidal thoughts: For some people, the mix of Zoloft and alcohol amplifies existing suicidal ideation or even triggers such thoughts where they didn’t exist before.
Impairs your judgment: Your ability to make sound decisions plummets while the likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors or putting yourself in dangerous situations increases.
Leads to highly unpredictable reactions: The effects can vary from person to person and between occasions for the same individual. The Mayo Clinic suggests that mixing alcohol and antidepressants can affect judgment, coordination, motor skills, and reaction time more than alcohol alone, which can impair your ability to drive or perform focused tasks.
Disrupts sleep patterns: While the combination might initially cause drowsiness, it ultimately interferes with your sleep architecture. The end result may be poor quality rest and long-term sleep disorders.

The risks aren’t just short-term. Regularly combining alcohol and Zoloft can lead to long-term health issues and worsen the conditions the medication is meant to treat. Zoloft and alcohol use can also be lethal. The combination can lead to severe respiratory depression, dangerously low blood pressure, and sometimes coma or death.

Ardu offers comprehensive, evidence-based treatment for alcohol addiction, including medically supervised detoxification and personalized rehabilitation programs tailored to address substance abuse and any co-occurring mental health issues. Our experienced team provides a full spectrum of care to give you the tools and support needed to achieve lasting recovery and reclaim your life.

Why are hangovers worse with sertraline?

Alcohol and Zoloft together may result in a harsher and longer-lasting hangover. Here’s how this combination can worsen your hangover experience:

Zoloft competes with alcohol for liver enzymes. This can slow down alcohol breakdown and extend the duration of alcohol’s presence in your system. The combined strain on your liver from processing both substances might slow your body’s overall recovery process and prolong hangover symptoms.
While alcohol alone disrupts sleep, the combination with Zoloft further alters sleep patterns. As a result, you’ll likely experience lower-quality sleep, making you feel tired and groggy when you wake up.
Zoloft affects sodium levels, while alcohol impairs electrolyte balance. This combination worsens electrolyte imbalances and amplifies hangover symptoms such as headaches and dizziness.
When combined, alcohol and Zoloft overstimulate certain neural pathways and increase sensory sensitivity during a hangover. You may experience more intense reactions to light and sound, making hangover discomforts feel even worse.

It isn’t easy to break free from the dangerous combination of drinking and Zoloft, especially if your body has developed a dependency on one or both substances. In most cases, people require professional help to safely navigate the withdrawal process and address the underlying issues that led to substance abuse.

Our comprehensive, personalized treatment programs combine safe detoxification, therapy, and holistic approaches to help you withdraw from alcohol and Zoloft while addressing both your addiction and mental health needs.

Reach out to our specialists today, and take the first step towards sobriety.

Common misconceptions about Zoloft and alcohol use

Many people have misconceptions about mixing alcohol with medications, especially antidepressants. These mistaken beliefs often lead to dangerous decisions and put your health at risk. Let’s clear up some of the most common myths about alcohol and Zoloft use and help you make safer choices.

“A drink or two won’t hurt.” Even small amounts of alcohol can interact badly with Zoloft. Your tolerance might be lower than you expect. This may lead to impaired judgment or exaggerated adverse effects.
“I can skip my Zoloft if I want to drink.” Skipping doses can disrupt your treatment and worsen your symptoms. Zoloft needs to be taken consistently to be effective.
“Alcohol will help my anxiety better than Zoloft.” Alcohol might feel like it temporarily helps, but it worsens anxiety and depression in the long run.
“The warnings are overly cautious.” These warnings are based on real risks. The interaction between Zoloft and alcohol is unpredictable and sometimes dangerous.
“I’ve mixed them before and felt fine, so it can’t be that bad.” Just because you haven’t had a bad reaction before doesn’t mean you’re in the clear. The effects can be cumulative or depend on factors such as your stress levels or other medications.

If you’ve been mixing alcohol with Zoloft or other antidepressants, it’s time to reconsider. This combination is dangerous and often requires expert intervention to manage both withdrawal and mental health. A well-rounded rehab approach should include medical supervision, therapy for addiction and mental health, and a supportive environment for long-term recovery.

“Ardu was a place in which I felt safe, giving me the will to learn about myself. The staff are people I look up to, due to the way they listen and offer loving support… Change was hard for me and Ardu’s staff and facility made it that much easier to change my life for the better.”

—Steven Trujillo

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Ardu’s dual diagnosis treatment

We specialize in dual diagnosis treatment for those facing both mental health disorders and substance use disorders (SUDs). Our program addresses the unique challenges of polysubstance abuse, such as mixing Zoloft and alcohol. Through a combination of medical supervision and tailored therapies, Ardu helps clients manage withdrawal, cope with emotional triggers, and develop healthier coping mechanisms.

Therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) address mental health and substance abuse simultaneously and help clients regain control over their lives. We also provide family counseling and group therapy to build a strong support system for long-term recovery.

Our detox services for alcohol and substance abuse

Detox allows the body to clear harmful substances while preparing the mind for further treatment. At Ardu’s detox center, the process is carefully managed to reduce the risks associated with withdrawal, especially when alcohol and Zoloft are involved.

During detox, clients are monitored 24/7 to manage physical discomfort and prevent complications. We try to transition you into the next phase of treatment safely and stabilize the body and mind, laying the groundwork for a successful, long-term recovery.

At our alcohol detox center, we offer:

Personalized detox plans: Each client receives an individualized detox plan tailored to their needs. This way, we provide the best approach to safely removing substances from their system.
Medication management: We administer FDA-approved medications to manage withdrawal symptoms, prevent complications for a safer detox process, and reduce the risk of relapse.
Nutritional support: We incorporate a balanced diet and hydration plan to restore physical health and aid the detox process. This is especially necessary because Zoloft and alcohol abuse can deplete the body of essential nutrients.
Holistic detox: We incorporate holistic therapies such as mindfulness, yoga, and acupuncture to support overall well-being. Holistic services help clients manage stress and promote healing throughout the detox process.

If you’re battling substance abuse and want to quit, our drug detox services provide the safe, supportive care you need to begin your recovery.

Rehab services we offer

Our comprehensive range of rehab services is tailored to meet the individual needs of those struggling with substance abuse and mental health challenges. Each program provides an appropriate level of care, whether clients require round-the-clock medical supervision or structured therapy sessions. We cover every stage of the healing process.

Inpatient rehab

Ardu’s inpatient rehab provides 24/7 care in a structured, supportive environment. Clients live on-site during treatment to focus fully on their recovery without distractions or external pressures. Inpatient care includes medical supervision, individual and group therapy, and holistic therapies aimed at healing the mind and body.

This setting is ideal for those with severe addictions or dual diagnoses because it offers a higher level of care and constant access to medical and therapeutic professionals.

Outpatient rehab

For clients who need flexibility or have responsibilities they cannot step away from, Ardu offers outpatient rehab. This allows individuals to live at home while attending therapy sessions and treatment programs at scheduled times.

Outpatient rehab includes many of the same services as inpatient care—such as individual counseling, group therapy, and holistic treatments—but clients can integrate treatment with their daily lives. This option works best for those with milder addictions or those transitioning from inpatient care.

Partial hospitalization program (PHP)

Ardu’s partial hospitalization program offers an intermediate level of care and provides intensive treatment during the day, allowing clients to return home in the evenings. PHP includes medical supervision, therapy, and structured activities that address the psychological and physical aspects of addiction. This mode of treatment is suited for those who need more support than outpatient rehab but do not require 24/7 care.

Intensive outpatient program (IOP)

Our intensive outpatient care is a step down from PHP. It includes several hours of therapy and support multiple times a week. IOP is for individuals who are stable enough to live independently but still need regular support to maintain their recovery. It focuses on continued therapy, relapse prevention, and developing coping strategies for long-term sobriety.

Aftercare and support services

In addition to primary treatment programs, we provide ongoing aftercare services, including relapse prevention planning, access to support groups, and continued therapy. These services transition clients from structured rehab to daily life and provide the support they need to maintain their sobriety in the long term.

With the right support and guidance, you can break free from the grip of addiction and start living the healthy, fulfilling life you deserve. Our team will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals.

To learn more about how we can help you break free from substance and alcohol misuse, verify your insurance coverage, or start your recovery journey, contact Ardu online or call us at 801-872-8480.

Brandon Okey is the co-founder of Ardu Recovery Center and is dedicated to empowering people on their journey to sobriety.

Zoloft and alcohol FAQ

Can you drink moderately on antidepressants?

Drinking while on antidepressants is not recommended. Even moderate drinking leads to amplified side effects, drowsiness, and impaired coordination. Your symptoms of depression or anxiety disorders may also worsen.

Alcohol can interfere with the effectiveness of antidepressants by affecting serotonin receptors in the brain and reducing their effectiveness in managing mental health conditions. For some individuals, alcohol increases the risk of serotonin syndrome, a rare but life-threatening condition.

What should you not mix with Zoloft?

Zoloft should not be mixed with alcohol because it increases the risk of potential side effects such as impaired coordination and makes symptoms of depression worse. Other medications such as blood thinners, certain migraine treatments, and other antidepressants may cause harmful drug interactions. Over-the-counter medications, including ibuprofen, increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding when combined with Zoloft.

Always consult your healthcare provider about potential drug interactions with Zoloft to avoid dangerous consequences.

Can alcohol cause memory loss with Zoloft?

Memory loss and cognitive impairments are only some of the adverse effects of mixing Zoloft with alcohol. Both substances act as neurological suppressants and affect brain activity to impair short-term memory and make you feel confused and foggy. The impaired brain functions caused by alcohol, when combined with antidepressants, increase the risk of accidents and other harmful interactions. The combination may also result in a higher risk of blackouts and worsened depression symptoms.

Is 100 mg of Zoloft a day a lot?

A daily dosage of 100 mg of Zoloft is a moderate dose and is commonly prescribed for treating depressive disorders, social anxiety disorder, and panic attacks. The standard dose for people with depression ranges from 50 mg to 200 mg per day, depending on the individual’s response to the medication.

Always follow your doctor’s recommendations and report any side effects or concerns about treatment to avoid potential risks.

Does alcohol boost serotonin?

While alcohol temporarily increases serotonin levels, its long-term effects reduce serotonin production and impair brain functions. Alcohol’s short-lived boost in serotonin can lead to mood swings, emotional instability, and increased depressive symptoms over time. Regular alcohol use can also negatively interact with medications such as Zoloft, which are designed to modulate serotonin molecules and lead to severe side effects or a dangerous reaction.

How common is serotonin syndrome?

Serotonin syndrome is relatively rare but can be life-threatening. It occurs when there is too much serotonin in the brain. It’s often a result of combining medications that affect serotonin levels, such as certain antidepressants, or mixing these with alcohol or recreational drugs.

Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include rapid heart rate, muscle rigidity, excessive sweating, and, in severe cases, seizures or coma. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you’re taking to reduce the risk of this dangerous condition.

Why can’t I sleep with Zoloft?

Zoloft can disrupt sleep in some people by increasing serotonin activity, which may produce insomnia or give you a hard time falling asleep. It can also cause common side effects such as excessive sweating or increased anxiety, both of which may affect sleep patterns. If you experience ongoing sleep issues while on Zoloft, consult a healthcare provider to explore possible adjustments to your treatment plan or to manage side effects more effectively.

Why can’t you take ibuprofen on Zoloft?

Combining ibuprofen with Zoloft increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, especially with long-term use. Both Zoloft and ibuprofen affect serotonin levels in the body, which can lead to adverse side effects such as stomach ulcers, bleeding, or other gastrointestinal issues.

Resources

Wood E, Rehm J; Canadian Alcohol Use Disorder Guideline Committee. Addressing the risks of antidepressants among people with alcohol use disorders. CMAJ. 2024 Mar 17;196(10):E349-E350. doi: 10.1503/cmaj.150095-l. Erratum in: CMAJ. 2024 Jul 14;196(25):E884. doi: 10.1503/cmaj.240910. PMID: 38499304; PMCID: PMC10948179.

Fletcher, J. (2023, May 17). Is it safe to mix Zoloft and alcohol? https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325645

Drinking alcohol during antidepressant treatment — a cause for concern? – The Pharmaceutical Journal. (2021, December 2). The Pharmaceutical Journal. https://pharmaceutical-journal.com/article/news/drinking-alcohol-during-antidepressant-treatment-a-cause-for-concern

Antidepressants and alcohol: What’s the concern? (2017, June 9). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/expert-answers/antidepressants-and-alcohol/faq-20058231