MODERATE — Monitor Closely
🟡 MODERATE — Alcohol worsens Citalopram side effects.
Evidence level: STRONG
Alcohol worsens citalopram side effects and both can affect heart rhythm at high levels.
Additive CNS depression. Both can prolong QT interval.
Limit or avoid alcohol while taking citalopram.
Take Citalopram at the same time daily. Most SSRIs can be taken with or without food, though food may reduce GI side effects. Alcohol — if it's high in tyramine (aged cheese, cured meats, fermented foods), this is mainly a concern with MAOIs, not SSRIs. SSRIs are generally food-flexible.
High-dose citalopram, heart conditions
Drowsiness, worsened mood, palpitations
Discuss alcohol use and QT risk with your doctor
Discuss this combination with your prescriber. They may adjust timing, dosing, or switch to an alternative with fewer interaction risks. Never stop an antidepressant abruptly — taper under medical guidance.
Alcohol worsens citalopram side effects and both can affect heart rhythm at high levels.
Take Citalopram at the same time daily. Most SSRIs can be taken with or without food, though food may reduce GI side effects. Alcohol — if it's high in tyramine (aged cheese, cured meats, fermented foods), this is mainly a concern with MAOIs, not SSRIs. SSRIs are generally food-flexible.
Drowsiness, worsened mood, palpitations
Discuss this combination with your prescriber. They may adjust timing, dosing, or switch to an alternative with fewer interaction risks. Never stop an antidepressant abruptly — taper under medical guidance.
Discuss alcohol use and QT risk with your doctor
Or browse the full interaction database (121,000+ pairs).