Medications · FAQ
Can escitalopram interact with other medicines, supplements, or alcohol?
Short answer
Yes. Escitalopram can interact with other antidepressants, certain pain and migraine medicines, blood thinners, and supplements such as St. John's wort. Some combinations can be dangerous. Alcohol can worsen drowsiness and judgment. Give your physician and pharmacist a full list of what you take before starting or adding anything.
Escitalopram can interact with prescription medicines, over-the-counter products, and supplements. Give your physician and pharmacist a complete list, including medicines you take only sometimes. Do not start, stop, or combine treatments without checking first. Even products sold as natural can cause serious interactions.
Escitalopram must not be combined with monoamine oxidase inhibitors, also called MAOIs. A waiting period is needed when switching between these medicines. Certain drugs, including linezolid and intravenous methylene blue, also require special precautions. Your physician should manage the timing and any treatment changes.
Other medicines that affect serotonin can raise the risk of serotonin syndrome. Examples include some antidepressants, migraine medicines, tramadol, and St. John's wort. Aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and blood thinners may increase bleeding risk when used with escitalopram. Some medicines that affect heart rhythm also require review.
Alcohol can worsen sleepiness, slow reactions, and impair judgment. It may also interfere with mental health care. Avoid alcohol until you have discussed its use with your physician. Ask before taking sleep aids or other sedating products.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.