Prescription drugs play a crucial role in managing medical conditions, particularly for chronic diseases and pain. In the U.S. about 6 out of 10 adults report they are currently taking at least one prescription drug and a quarter report they are currently taking four or more prescription medications.1 At the same time, alcohol is widely consumed by adults with 65% of adults 21 years of age and older drinking alcohol.2 When these two worlds intersect, there can be significant consequences. In this blog, we will explore the potentially harmful interactions between prescription drugs and alcohol, shedding light on the importance of informed decisions and open communication with healthcare professionals.
Table of Contents
Understanding Drug-Alcohol Interactions
In a National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism survey of 26,000 adults, almost 600 (45%) of the prescription medications used by survey participants were classified as interacting with alcohol.3 Not surprisingly these medications were related to the treatment of common medical conditions including high blood pressure, insomnia, pain, diabetes, high cholesterol, depression, and psychosis.
Both prescription drugs and alcohol have complex interactions within the body. These interactions can lead to unpredictable side effects, diminished or enhanced drug efficacy, or even life-threatening consequences. The extent of these interactions varies depending on the specific drug, its mechanism of action, and the amount and frequency of alcohol consumption.
Older individuals and women may be at greater risk for harmful interactions. Older adults are more likely to be taking one or more prescription drugs and body changes from aging can affect the way medication and alcohol are metabolized. For example, liver and kidney function may slow down affecting the way substances are broken down. For women, chemical and biological differences make them more vulnerable to alcohol than men. Research shows that the effects of alcohol usually occur more quickly and last longer.4
Common Types of Drug-Alcohol Interactions
Enhanced Sedation: Many prescription drugs, such as opioids, sedatives, and muscle relaxants, can cause drowsiness and impair motor skills. Combining these drugs with alcohol can magnify these effects, leading to extreme drowsiness, slurred speech, and increased risk of accidents.
Reduced Drug Effectiveness: Alcohol can interfere with the absorption, metabolism, and elimination of certain drugs. For instance, it may reduce the effectiveness of antibiotics, blood pressure medications, and psychiatric drugs, rendering the treatment less effective.
Liver Overload: Both alcohol and certain medications are metabolized in the liver. Excessive alcohol consumption can overburden the liver, reducing its ability to process drugs efficiently. This can lead to an accumulation of the drug in the body, potentially causing toxicity.
Increased Risk of Side Effects: Some prescription drugs, such as antidepressants and antipsychotics, can have side effects like dizziness, confusion, and increased heart rate. Alcohol can exacerbate these side effects, making them more severe and uncomfortable.
Respiratory Depression: Opioid painkillers, when combined with alcohol, can cause dangerous respiratory depression, potentially leading to life-threatening situations.
Worsening Medical Conditions: Alcohol can worsen the symptoms of various medical conditions, such as gastrointestinal problems, liver disease, and diabetes. When taken with medications for these conditions, it can hinder the treatment’s effectiveness.
Mental Health Implications: Many individuals with mental health disorders take prescription medications to manage their symptoms. Alcohol can interact with these medications, leading to mood swings, increased anxiety, or even suicidal thoughts.
Taking Precautions
To avoid the potentially harmful interactions between prescription drugs and alcohol, here are some essential steps:
Prior to starting a new medication:
Consult Your Healthcare Provider: Always discuss your medication regimen with your healthcare provider, including your alcohol consumption. You healthcare provider can give guidance on whether it’s safe to drink while taking specific medications.
Read Medication Labels: Consult the medication labels and note any warnings about alcohol consumption. Some drugs explicitly caution against drinking alcohol.
Consult the National Institutes of Health’s (NIH) Harmful Interactions pamphlet: The NIH publishes a guide of commonly used (not all) prescription and over-the-counter medications that interact with alcohol. The list includes the brand name and generic name for each medication.
Know Your Limits: If you and your healthcare provider decide that moderate alcohol consumption is acceptable with your medication. Be mindful of any alcohol limits.
After starting new medication:
Monitor Your Body: Pay attention to how your body reacts when taking medications and drinking alcohol.
Keep Track of Side Effects: Make a note of any new symptoms, including mood changes. Discuss any unwanted side effects with your healthcare provider.
Seek Support: If you have a history of substance abuse or are concerned about your alcohol consumption, seek support from an addiction specialist or contact Beat Addiction Recovery here.
Prescription drugs and alcohol interactions can have serious consequences, ranging from diminished treatment efficacy to life-threatening situations. Prioritize your health and well-being by seeking guidance from healthcare professionals and making informed decisions about alcohol consumption.
If you or someone you know is suffering from alcohol use disorder, reach out to us today by clicking here.
Citations:
Ashley Kirzinger, Alex Montero, Grace Sparks, Isabelle Valdes, and Liz Hamel, https://www.kff.org/health-costs/poll-finding/public-opinion-on-prescription-drugs-and-their-prices. ↩︎
