Bupropion, Fluoxetine & Alcohol Side Effects

Bupropion (Wellbutrin) and fluoxetine (Prozac) are prescription medications used to treat depression or to help an individual quit smoking. Despite their effectiveness, they pose a significant risk when combined with alcohol.

Significance

Because of the dangerous nature of side effects caused by the mix of bupropion or fluoxetine and alcohol, the Food and Drug Administration prohibits the use of these drugs to treat patients who abuse alcohol.

Identification

Drinking alcohol while taking bupropion or fluoxetine poses a high risk for experiencing seizures. Even if the individual does not suffer a seizure, bupropion and fluoxetine lower alcohol tolerance, making him more susceptible to becoming quickly intoxicated or developing alcohol poisoning.

Features

Even if the individual only drinks occasionally while taking buproprion or fluoxetine, it is possible to experience seizures. Alcoholics who stop drinking shortly before beginning buproprion or fluoxetine treatment are also at risk.

Prevention

Since it is impossible to predict what effect drinking will have while taking these medications, it is best to avoid any consumption of alcohol.

Considerations

Though far less common, cold remedies and other medications that contain alcohol also pose a threat of seizures while taking buproprion or fluoxetine. Talk to your doctor before taking an over-the-counter medication.

References

• RxList on Bupropion
• Drugs.com on Bupropion
• Mayo Clinic on Bupropion