Mixing alcohol and medication can seem harmless — but the risks are often underestimated. Even one drink can interfere with how your body processes certain drugs. Whether you’re taking antibiotics, antidepressants, or blood pressure pills, alcohol can reduce the effectiveness of your medication or cause dangerous side effects.
Why Alcohol and Medication Don’t Mix
When you consume alcohol, your liver focuses on breaking it down — delaying the breakdown of medication. This can lead to:
- Increased side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, or nausea
- Decreased absorption or effectiveness of the medication
- Dangerous spikes in blood pressure or heart rate
- Liver damage when taken with certain drugs like acetaminophen or statins
Common Medications You Shouldn’t Mix with Alcohol
Some drug classes are especially risky when taken with alcohol:
- Antibiotics (e.g., metronidazole, tinidazole): may cause vomiting and rapid heartbeat
- Benzodiazepines (e.g., diazepam, lorazepam): risk of severe sedation or breathing issues
- Antidepressants (SSRIs, MAOIs): alcohol can worsen mood or cause high blood pressure
- Painkillers (especially opioids): increased risk of overdose
- Diabetes meds: may cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) when combined with alcohol
See our full article on Best Times of Day to Take Your Medication for more on medication timing and safety.
How to Stay Safe
- Read your labels: Many meds explicitly warn against alcohol
- Ask your doctor or pharmacist before drinking
- Use a medication reminder app like Pill Plan to stay consistent
- Avoid alcohol entirely if you’re on long-term or chronic treatment
Final Word
If you’re unsure about alcohol and medication, play it safe. Even small amounts can interfere with your health and recovery. When in doubt, skip the drink — your body will thank you.
