46 medicines · AI for the rest

Medicines and alcohol

Can I drink alcohol with this medicine? A green / amber / red checker with the mechanism of the interaction, the symptoms and clear advice. If it is not in the curated dataset, the AI writes the record in seconds.

We are not recommending that anyone drinks. As pharmacists we advise against drinking any alcohol, particularly during a course of treatment. This page is information about the risks of mixing alcohol with medicines; it is not here to normalise or encourage drinking. If you drink often or you have doubts, talk to your doctor or your own pharmacist. In the UK, Drinkaware and your GP can help; in Spain, the national addiction helpline is 900 161 515.
Guidance only. This tool does NOT replace the pharmacist's professional judgement or a medical consultation. Before any decision, read the official Summary of Product Characteristics — in Spain at CIMA, elsewhere from your own regulator.
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Over 40 medicines sorted by how they interact with alcohol. Tap any of them for the full record.

Frequently asked questions

Can I drink alcohol while taking metronidazole?

NO. Metronidazole blocks aldehyde dehydrogenase and produces a disulfiram-like reaction: flushing, a fast heartbeat, nausea, vomiting and headache. Avoid ALL alcohol during the course and for 48 h after. That includes wine used in cooking and alcohol-based mouthwash.

Is paracetamol with alcohol dangerous?

Therapeutic doses with moderate drinking are safe. In heavy drinkers (3 or more units a day), or with prolonged high-dose use, the risk of liver damage rises, because CYP2E1 is induced and produces NAPQI.

Can I take amoxicillin and have a beer?

There is no direct drug interaction. But while an infection is being treated it is sensible to cut down, because alcohol can slow recovery by temporarily suppressing immunity.

Does sertraline interact with alcohol?

There is no relevant pharmacokinetic interaction, but it can add to drowsiness and dizziness, and alcohol makes low mood worse. The occasional moderate drink is acceptable once the treatment has settled.

Which medicines cause a disulfiram-like reaction?

Metronidazole, tinidazole, disulfiram, cefoperazone and procarbazine. Acetaldehyde builds up and causes flushing, sweating, a fast heartbeat, low blood pressure and nausea. Avoid ALL alcohol, including cooking and mouthwash.

Does it work for any medicine?

Yes. If your medicine is not in the curated dataset, the AI writes the record in seconds from the Summary of Product Characteristics, the BNF and BOT-PLUS. It is for guidance and does NOT replace your doctor or pharmacist.