From antibiotics to opioids to antihistamines, every interaction has its potential hazards, and it’s important to understand the risks before deciding whether to drink while taking medication. The first layer of understanding begins with knowing the “what”—the specific adverse effects of mixing your medication with alcohol. The issues range from mild annoyances, like dizziness and drowsiness, to severe consequences like impaired judgment, internal bleeding, or even life-threatening scenarios. For instance, mixing alcohol with sedatives for anxiety disorders can depress central nervous system activities, posing a risk of accidental overdose.
Blood Pressure Medications
This may happen due to already being under the influence of alcohol, or, as we talked about earlier, the alcohol masking the effects of the pain pill, thus leading to the need to take more. Melatonin derived from beef cattle or synthetically made is available over the counter as a dietary supplement for various sleep disorders. Melatonin is generally safe when used alone to improve sleep in people who have trouble falling or staying asleep. Sleeping pills, whether prescription, over-the-counter or herbal, are used to promote drowsiness in people who have trouble falling asleep and staying asleep.
Over-the-Counter Pain Medications
This knowledge could be the key to avoiding harmful or fatal consequences. Drowsiness, dizziness, dehydration, poor coordination and even harm to the liver or heart can be experienced. Take medications as instructed, and don’t drink alcohol if taking a Twelve-step program drug, unless your doctor says it’s okay.
- Adderall, Dexedrine, and Vyvanse can increase a person’s risk for heart problems.
- Combining a medicine that acts on the brain with alcohol may make driving a car or operating heavy machinery difficult and lead to a serious accident.
- Studies have shown that combining alcohol with prescription drugs can lead to more negative side effects.
How Alcohol Interacts With Painkillers
«Stimulant drugs like those for ADHD…can have wildly activating effects when mixed with alcohol,» says Dr. Cutler. Mixing Adderall, Vyvanse, or Dexedrine with alcohol increases the risk for heart problems, and drinking on Strattera carries a risk for liver damage, the NIAAA notes. We’ve all seen the cautionary label on pill bottles, telling us in big, bold letters to avoid drinking while taking the medication. That’s true for both over-the-counter and prescription medications—and even mixing alcohol with natural remedies, like St. John’s Wort, can be problematic. The consequences of drinking while taking medications can range from minor (feeling a bit dizzy, for instance) to fatal.
People choose to mix alcohol and drugs for an array of reasons, one common reason being a person seeking to enhance the pleasurable effects of the two substances. Adverse drug interactions are one of the leading causes of death in the U.S. Those who are going to take medication must do so responsibly in order to minimize the risk of a deadly drug combination. Like diphenhydramine, doxylamine is an antihistamine that can be used for sleep. Alcohol should be avoided when taking doxylamine due to the risk of additive side effects,includingimpaired judgment, thinking, and motor skills.
The “how” involves creating a tailored plan, recognizing that social events and gatherings often involve alcohol. Discuss your social calendar with your healthcare provider to determine if and when it’s safe to miss a dose, take an alternate medication, or whether you need to abstain from alcohol altogether. Remember, even minor changes to your medication regimen should be made under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Usually, this would be your primary healthcare provider or the specialist overseeing your treatment. It may also include pharmacists, who can provide valuable insights into medication interactions. Consulting with multiple professionals can provide a composite view that aids in comprehensive healthcare planning.
Anxiety medications
Both heroin and alcohol are depressants which can cause similar side effects. When you consume heroin with alcohol, these breathing problems can be even more serious and life-threatening. The consumption of both heroin and alcohol mixing alcohol and pills can also lead to an extremely slow heart rate and overdosing. Recognizing the warning signs of of alcohol and substance abuse is key to getting help early.
