QUESTION:
Dear Dr. Heller,
Hello, I am in a bit of a situation and I was wondering if you would be able to give me some advice? I just started taking Paxil, I am 16 years old and as being a teenager it is quite difficult to avoid alcohol. But I actually do generally. I am not a big drinker, but with the summer coming I had intended to drink a little bit (once in a while and only one or two light drinks). I am also going to France to do my OAC English, and A big part of the life there is drinking, and I know the students are permitted to drink, I intended to have a glass or so of wine every so often, but I would really like to know if this would be ok? As well what are the effects of drugs and Paxil (i.e. marijuana, S/P?)
ANSWER:
The Paxil won’t be as effective. If you’re depressed or needing Paxil for some other reason – particularly at age 16 – you shouldn’t be taking additional drugs like alcohol and marijuana. They could trigger rage, worsening depression, or psychosis (losing touch with reality). If your self-esteem isn’t strong enough to say “no” – you probably should not go on this trip. It’s a potential disaster for you, and something from which you may never recover.