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There are certain reasons as to why certain things are not consumed as a combination since they can affect the well-being of a person.

You may feel depressed or anxious. Drinking can counteract the benefits of your antidepressant medication, making your symptoms more difficult to treat. Alcohol may seem to improve your mood in the short term, but its overall effect increases symptoms of depression and anxiety. Side effects may be worse if you also take another medication. Many medications can cause problems when taken with alcohol including anti-anxiety medications, sleep medications and prescription pain medications. Side effects may worsen if you drink alcohol and take one of these drugs along with an antidepressant.

You may be at risk of a dangerous reaction if you take MAOIs. When combined with certain types of alcoholic beverages and foods, antidepressants called monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) can cause a dangerous spike in blood pressure.

You may be at risk of alcohol abuse as people with depression are at increased risk of substance abuse and addiction. If you have trouble controlling your alcohol use, you may need treatment for alcohol dependence. You may benefit from substance abuse counselling and treatment programs. Tell your doctor about any other health conditions you might have and any other medications you take, including over-the-counter medications or supplements.

Keeping your doctor informed is important because some liquid medications, such as cough syrups, can contain alcohol. Adding a new medication may change the level of another medication in your body and how it reacts to alcohol. Also, don't stop taking an anti-depressant or other medication just so that you can drink.