Alcohol and Medications: What You Need to Know

Mixing alcohol with medicines can be harmless in some cases and dangerous in others. If you take prescription drugs, over-the-counter meds, or supplements, a quick check now can prevent dizziness, organ damage, or worse. Below are clear, practical points so you can make safer choices.

Common risky mixes to watch for

Some drug classes are obvious trouble with alcohol. Sedatives and anti-anxiety meds (like benzodiazepines) and many antipsychotics boost alcohol’s drowsiness and slow your breathing. For example, antipsychotics such as Abilify (aripiprazole) increase sedation and can affect coordination.

NSAIDs — the painkillers many people use — can raise your risk of stomach bleeding when combined with regular drinking. Celebrex (celecoxib) is an example: alcohol may make stomach irritation or bleeding more likely.

Antibiotics are mixed. Most are fine with moderate alcohol, but some — notably metronidazole or tinidazole — cause severe nausea, flushing, and fast heartbeat if you drink. If you’re on antibiotics, read the leaflet or ask a pharmacist which ones to avoid.

Some meds damage the liver and shouldn’t meet alcohol. Isotretinoin (for acne) and certain cholesterol or seizure drugs can raise liver stress. Drinking while on these meds increases liver injury risk.

Diuretics like furosemide can dehydrate you. Alcohol’s a diuretic too, so the combo can cause low blood pressure and fainting. And sexual performance drugs such as vardenafil (Vilitra) plus alcohol can amplify dizziness and drop blood pressure more than either alone.

Memory or dementia meds such as galantamine (Reminyl) may worsen confusion or dizziness if you drink. If you care for someone on these drugs, skip alcohol during vulnerable periods.

Practical rules to stay safe

1) Know a standard drink: in many places one drink = ~14 g pure alcohol — 12 oz beer, 5 oz wine, or 1.5 oz spirits. Use that to judge your intake.

2) Read the patient leaflet. It lists alcohol warnings. If it says avoid alcohol, take that seriously.

3) Ask your pharmacist or doctor one specific question: “Is it safe to drink small amounts while on this drug?” A short answer is better than guessing.

4) Avoid alcohol during the first days of a new prescription. That’s when side effects like dizziness or nausea are most likely to show up.

5) If you buy meds online, use verified pharmacies and double-check interactions. A cheap price isn’t worth risking a dangerous combo.

If you’re unsure about any medication listed here—such as Celebrex, Abilify, Reminyl, Furosemide, Vilitra, or isotretinoin—look up the drug’s info or ask a healthcare professional. Small changes, like skipping a drink or delaying alcohol while on treatment, often avoid big problems. Stay safe and check when in doubt.