Enjoying a drink is a normal part of social life for many people, but experts warn that alcohol and medication can be a harmful mix.
Pharmacist Deborah Grayson, speaking to Daily Mail, cautioned that some medicines interact so severely with alcohol that even small amounts, like those found in a dessert, can cause intense reactions.
Deborah Grayson said many patients ignore the warnings printed on prescription labels, unaware that alcohol can change how certain drugs are processed in the body.
This can make medicines less effective or even toxic.
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The drugs that don’t mix
Deborah Grayson identified several types of medication that should never be taken with alcohol.
- Antibiotics, especially metronidazole and ciprofloxacin, can trigger nausea, vomiting, and a severe physical response.
- Blood thinners such as Warfarin may react with alcohol, increasing the risk of bleeding or blood clots.
- Antidepressants, including amitriptyline and mirtazapine, can heighten drowsiness and worsen low mood when combined with alcohol.
She added that ADHD medications like methylphenidate and lisdexamfetamine may mask the effects of drinking, leading people to consume more than intended.
Likewise, antipsychotics and sleeping pills can amplify drowsiness and impair coordination, creating serious safety risks.
When in doubt, skip the drink
Health professionals stress that it’s best to avoid alcohol entirely while taking prescription medication unless a doctor confirms it’s safe.
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Even moderate drinking can interfere with treatment or intensify side effects.
Deborah Grayson’s message is simple: If you’re taking any medication, don’t assume a small drink is harmless. Check the label or speak to your pharmacist first.
Sources: Unilad, and Daily Mail.
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