Can You Drink Alcohol While on Antibiotics?

Drinking alcohol while simultaneously taking antibiotic medication can cause dangerous and sometimes life-threatening effects and should not be done without the supervision of a doctor. The severity of the effects is dependent on the types and quantities of medication and alcohol ingested.

• Pills

Types

• Antibiotics are a class of drug that slows or kills bacteria. The three main types are antiviral, antiparasitic and antifungal drugs.

Symptoms

• The common symptoms of alcohol and antibiotic interaction are nausea, drowsiness, upset stomach and dizziness.

Effects

• Alcohol doesn't always diminish the effects of antibiotics. But the Georgia Government Health guide states that certain kinds of the medicine, like doxycycline (Vibramycin, Doryx) are rendered less effective by drinking, making a higher dose required.

Warning

• According to the website Alcohol and Antibiotics, "the most common consequences after taking alcohol and antibiotics are injury, increased risk of illness and sometimes death." In fact, as shown by statistics, at least 25 percent of all emergency room visits are due to alcohol and medication interaction, per Steady Health.

Solution

• If alcohol and antibiotics are taken at the same time, the patient should immediately stop taking either for a few hours drink large amounts of water, do not drive or operate machinery, and get in contact with a doctor, per Walgreens Pharmacy, always check with your doctor regarding drug interaction information.