Limbitrol and Alcohol

Since Limbitrol and alcohol are both CNS depressants and can slow down brain activity, it is generally recommended that people avoid combining the two. In addition, people with mental illnesses should avoid alcohol. Combining Limbitrol and alcohol can slow down the heart and breathing, which can cause you to have difficulty breathing or pass out, or even lead to loss of life.

Can I Drink Alcohol While Taking Limbitrol?

Limbitrol® (chlordiazepoxide and amitriptyline) is a prescription medication used to treat depression that is associated with anxiety. Both Limbitrol and alcohol are central nervous system depressants (CNS depressants), which means they slow down the activity of the brain. Drinking alcohol while taking Limbitrol may increase your risk of serious side effects and reactions. In general, drinking alcohol while on Limbitrol is not recommended. In addition, many people with mental illnesses are usually advised to avoid alcohol.
 

Side Effects of Limbitrol and Alcohol

Drinking alcohol while taking Limbitrol may increase your risk of certain
 Limbitrol side effects, such as:
 
  • Memory problems
  • Drowsiness
  • Dizziness
  • Unusual behavior
  • Low blood pressure (hypotension)
  • Problems with coordination.
     
Combining Limbitrol and alcohol may also slow down both the heart and breathing, which can cause you to pass out, have difficulty breathing, or may even lead to death. You may also be more sensitive to the effects of alcohol if you are taking Limbitrol. For example, you may not be able to safely drink as much alcohol as you are used to drinking.
 
Limbitrol is approved to treat depression associated with anxiety. Generally, it is best for people with mental illnesses (such as depression and anxiety) to avoid alcohol. It may make mental illness worse and is often a form of "self-medication."
 
(Limbitrol and Alcohol Continued: Page 2)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;
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