Taking metronidazole and wondering what happens if you mix it with alcohol? Our latest blog has the answers!
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
It’s a common story: you go to a doctor, walk away with a prescription for your condition, then drive to your local pharmacy to pick it up. You’re excited, thinking how much better you’ll feel soon. You take it out of the crinkly paper bag, tear off what seems like an entire stack of papers with information in tiny print stapled onto it, and glance at it before tossing it into the recycling bin. Then something on the orange bottle catches your eye — that little wine glass with a line across it: “Don’t consume with alcohol!”
Yikes. It’s too late to get all those papers back to find out why, so you take your questions to Google: “Can you drink on metronidazole?” It’s probably not that bad, right? What’s all this about the disulfiram-like reaction between metronidazole and booze? Before you give yourself a panic attack searching for things like “Can metronidazole and alcohol kill you?” let’s get the facts straight. What exactly happens if you accidentally drink alcohol while taking metronidazole?
According to the National Library of Medicine, metronidazole (better known by the brand name Flagyl) is one of the go-to drugs for the treatment of infections. It’s equipped to handle several conditions:
That’s quite a long job description! And there’s even more. Topical metronidazole can treat a few gnarly infections, such as rosacea and bacterial vaginosis. Plus, it has several off-label uses:
Flagyl works by attacking bacterial DNA through a four-step process. Here’s the gist:
While metronidazole is quickly absorbed, it might take a couple of days to start feeling better. However, once it gets going, the medication does a powerful job of clearing out the infection.
In general, Flagyl doesn’t mix well with other substances, including alcohol. This isn’t all that surprising — for one thing, alcohol tends to intensify the side effects of many medications. In the case of metronidazole, there are quite a few:
In addition to these common side effects, there are some potentially serious (but rare) side effects of metronidazole that don’t mix well with booze:
If you’re taking disulfiram — a medication used to treat alcohol use disorder (AUD) — there’s yet another reason to pause and reconsider before taking metronidazole.
Disulfiram works by causing extremely unpleasant side effects, such as facial flushing, nausea, and cardiovascular abnormalities. The idea is that taking disulfiram will make drinking so unenjoyable we won’t want to do it anymore. (For more details, check out our blog “How Does Disulfiram Work?”)
What does any of this have to do with Flagyl? As it turns out, metronidazole has a negative, and potentially dangerous, interaction with both alcohol and disulfiram.
Let’s look at both effects in a bit more detail:
Some scientists now think that the side effects of mixing metronidazole and alcohol are a myth.
According to an Emergency Medical News article, doctors have been warning patients against mixing the two for years to avoid a “disulfiram-like reaction.” And yet, the author asks:
“If this interaction is so important, where were the cases? Millions of prescriptions for metronidazole are written each year. Despite clear warnings, it's inevitable that a significant number of patients would continue to consume alcohol with the drug. Yet I've never seen a patient come in with a disulfiram-like reaction from that combination. Is the metronidazole-ethanol drug interaction really a thing?”
The author goes on to explain how the accumulation of acetaldehyde is responsible for the disulfiram reaction and how the “original thinking” was that metronidazole also blocked its breakdown. However, as he points out, recent evidence shows that this might not be the case. When 18 patients who were on metronidazole were compared with a control group who had a similar blood alcohol concentration, none seemed to show any signs of a disulfiram-like reaction.
Likewise, a study in WMJ set out to investigate whether or not there was any truth to the disulfiram-like reaction claims and found that the answer isn’t as clear as scientists once thought. Their findings suggest that there’s no increase in acetaldehyde when both substances are present in our system.
Still, disulfiram-like reaction or not, metronidazole does interact with alcohol in potentially problematic ways, so the recommended wait period is at least two weeks for disulfiram and three days for alcohol after taking it.
Some of us might be thinking, “Oh no! What if I already had a drink before that warning label on the medicine package caught my eye?”
First of all, don’t panic. This probably happens quite often, and usually leads to no harmful effects, according to the Emergency Medical News study. However, it’s good to keep in mind that this is just one study arguing against the negative effects, and even if the “metronidazole and alcohol myth” is responsible for the alcohol warning, there are still other reasons why Flagyl and alcohol are not a good mix.
So, can metronidazole and alcohol kill you? It almost certainly won’t, especially given the evidence that there might not be a disulfiram-like reaction at play after all.
Still, it’s best to stay vigilant and avoid mixing metronidazole and alcohol. And if there’s any doubt in your mind at all that you’re having a dangerous reaction, please don’t hesitate to call your doctor immediately! There are many individual factors at play here, so erring on the side of safety is key.
So, how can we stay safe while taking metronidazole as we’re trying to stay away from booze for the time being (or, perhaps, for even longer)? Here are a few ideas:
In the end, as with any situation that compels us to set alcohol aside for a bit, it’s always best to see the situation as an opportunity. Perhaps it’s even a blessing in disguise! Who knows, by going booze-free for a few days or weeks, you might discover new activities you love or find that you enjoy waking up feeling refreshed. Maybe your skin looks better or maybe you’ve even dropped some weight. All in all, you might see that cutting back is something you want to continue in the long run to see what new benefits are waiting for you (and trust us, there are lots!). If so, Reframe is here to help you and cheer you on every step of the way.
It’s a common story: you go to a doctor, walk away with a prescription for your condition, then drive to your local pharmacy to pick it up. You’re excited, thinking how much better you’ll feel soon. You take it out of the crinkly paper bag, tear off what seems like an entire stack of papers with information in tiny print stapled onto it, and glance at it before tossing it into the recycling bin. Then something on the orange bottle catches your eye — that little wine glass with a line across it: “Don’t consume with alcohol!”
Yikes. It’s too late to get all those papers back to find out why, so you take your questions to Google: “Can you drink on metronidazole?” It’s probably not that bad, right? What’s all this about the disulfiram-like reaction between metronidazole and booze? Before you give yourself a panic attack searching for things like “Can metronidazole and alcohol kill you?” let’s get the facts straight. What exactly happens if you accidentally drink alcohol while taking metronidazole?
According to the National Library of Medicine, metronidazole (better known by the brand name Flagyl) is one of the go-to drugs for the treatment of infections. It’s equipped to handle several conditions:
That’s quite a long job description! And there’s even more. Topical metronidazole can treat a few gnarly infections, such as rosacea and bacterial vaginosis. Plus, it has several off-label uses:
Flagyl works by attacking bacterial DNA through a four-step process. Here’s the gist:
While metronidazole is quickly absorbed, it might take a couple of days to start feeling better. However, once it gets going, the medication does a powerful job of clearing out the infection.
In general, Flagyl doesn’t mix well with other substances, including alcohol. This isn’t all that surprising — for one thing, alcohol tends to intensify the side effects of many medications. In the case of metronidazole, there are quite a few:
In addition to these common side effects, there are some potentially serious (but rare) side effects of metronidazole that don’t mix well with booze:
If you’re taking disulfiram — a medication used to treat alcohol use disorder (AUD) — there’s yet another reason to pause and reconsider before taking metronidazole.
Disulfiram works by causing extremely unpleasant side effects, such as facial flushing, nausea, and cardiovascular abnormalities. The idea is that taking disulfiram will make drinking so unenjoyable we won’t want to do it anymore. (For more details, check out our blog “How Does Disulfiram Work?”)
What does any of this have to do with Flagyl? As it turns out, metronidazole has a negative, and potentially dangerous, interaction with both alcohol and disulfiram.
Let’s look at both effects in a bit more detail:
Some scientists now think that the side effects of mixing metronidazole and alcohol are a myth.
According to an Emergency Medical News article, doctors have been warning patients against mixing the two for years to avoid a “disulfiram-like reaction.” And yet, the author asks:
“If this interaction is so important, where were the cases? Millions of prescriptions for metronidazole are written each year. Despite clear warnings, it's inevitable that a significant number of patients would continue to consume alcohol with the drug. Yet I've never seen a patient come in with a disulfiram-like reaction from that combination. Is the metronidazole-ethanol drug interaction really a thing?”
The author goes on to explain how the accumulation of acetaldehyde is responsible for the disulfiram reaction and how the “original thinking” was that metronidazole also blocked its breakdown. However, as he points out, recent evidence shows that this might not be the case. When 18 patients who were on metronidazole were compared with a control group who had a similar blood alcohol concentration, none seemed to show any signs of a disulfiram-like reaction.
Likewise, a study in WMJ set out to investigate whether or not there was any truth to the disulfiram-like reaction claims and found that the answer isn’t as clear as scientists once thought. Their findings suggest that there’s no increase in acetaldehyde when both substances are present in our system.
Still, disulfiram-like reaction or not, metronidazole does interact with alcohol in potentially problematic ways, so the recommended wait period is at least two weeks for disulfiram and three days for alcohol after taking it.
Some of us might be thinking, “Oh no! What if I already had a drink before that warning label on the medicine package caught my eye?”
First of all, don’t panic. This probably happens quite often, and usually leads to no harmful effects, according to the Emergency Medical News study. However, it’s good to keep in mind that this is just one study arguing against the negative effects, and even if the “metronidazole and alcohol myth” is responsible for the alcohol warning, there are still other reasons why Flagyl and alcohol are not a good mix.
So, can metronidazole and alcohol kill you? It almost certainly won’t, especially given the evidence that there might not be a disulfiram-like reaction at play after all.
Still, it’s best to stay vigilant and avoid mixing metronidazole and alcohol. And if there’s any doubt in your mind at all that you’re having a dangerous reaction, please don’t hesitate to call your doctor immediately! There are many individual factors at play here, so erring on the side of safety is key.
So, how can we stay safe while taking metronidazole as we’re trying to stay away from booze for the time being (or, perhaps, for even longer)? Here are a few ideas:
In the end, as with any situation that compels us to set alcohol aside for a bit, it’s always best to see the situation as an opportunity. Perhaps it’s even a blessing in disguise! Who knows, by going booze-free for a few days or weeks, you might discover new activities you love or find that you enjoy waking up feeling refreshed. Maybe your skin looks better or maybe you’ve even dropped some weight. All in all, you might see that cutting back is something you want to continue in the long run to see what new benefits are waiting for you (and trust us, there are lots!). If so, Reframe is here to help you and cheer you on every step of the way.
Taking Mucinex this cold season and wondering if drinking on Mucinex is a bad idea? Find out why the two are not a great mix in our latest blog!
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Mucinex used to run commercials featuring “Mr. Mucus,” the lovable green and slimy antihero that the sinus-saving, cold-clearing medicine promises to sweep out of your nasal passages. So when you wake up clogged up and groggy, your eyes stinging and your m’s sounding like b’s when you talk, reaching for that trusty bottle of Mucinex can bring much-needed relief. But then you remember that beer you had before bed. Is it safe to take Mucinex after drinking? Should you wait? Let’s find out more!
As Mr. Mucus shows us, Mucinex is quite the multitasker. The active ingredient, guaifenesin, helps loosen up mucus to flush it out of the body.
While it might sound like something that came out of test tubes in the lab, guaifenesin is as natural as it gets. According to The Encyclopedia of Toxicology, it was “originally derived from the guaiac tree and used by Native Americans for health purposes.” Having caught on to its medicinal magic, scientists began to synthesize it in 1912. However, it took 77 years for the FDA to officially approve Mucinex in 1989 and another 15 for Mr. Mucus to officially enter the scene as its mascot in 2004.
From pills to syrups, Mucinex comes in all shapes and sizes. It also “plays well” with other meds and is often combined with antihistamines, cough suppressants, and decongestants.
While Mucinex is a very popular version of guaifenesin (thanks in part to Mr. Mucus and his marketing power), the medication comes under many other brand aliases:
Many other pharmacies and stores might have their own brand as well; it’s a tried-and-true remedy for congestion!
In short, alcohol and Mucinex are not a great mix. To understand why, let’s first take a look at the common side effects Mucinex is known for:
None of these are a huge deal on their own, but what happens when we mix them with alcohol? Let’s find out why combining the two is asking for trouble.
Now that we have an idea of the side effects of Mucinex, we can see that adding alcohol to the mix isn’t the best idea. When we drink alcohol alongside Mucinex, we run the risk of worsening side effects:
All of these symptoms can only make us more miserable when we are sick. But there are even more dangers to drinking alcohol with Mucinex. Let’s take a look.
Guaifenesin and alcohol are both metabolized by the liver, which can get overwhelmed by the double task of digesting both. Even worse, overtasking the liver can lead to a buildup of acetaldehyde, which contributes to hangovers and can even cause serious illnesses in the long run.
Another potential pitfall with combining Mucinex and alcohol? Guaifenesin may not be the only med in the mix. Many formulas that contain it have other ingredients to tackle all those additional cold-related symptoms, such as body aches and pains, cough, headaches, and sinus pain. And once again, most of them are not booze-friendly either:
If we’re nursing a cold, it’s better to avoid alcohol altogether. It will not only keep us safe but help us recover faster!
Finally, mixing alcohol and Mucinex doesn’t do us any favors when it comes to the reason we’re taking Mucinex in the first place.
For one thing, alcohol can throw a wrench in the workings of our immune system and isn’t the best ally in recovery from illness in general. (For more details, take a look at our blog “Alcohol's Impact on the Immune System.”)
Moreover, alcohol is a notorious diuretic that inhibits the release of the hormone in charge of telling our kidneys to hold on to water. And while Mucinex isn’t dehydrating per se, the cold itself is. So, adding booze to the mix dries up our body — and especially our sensitive nasal passages — even more.
Doctors say to wait at least 12 hours to be safe. But if you have any concerns or are taking additional medications, always check with yours! They know you best and will be able to offer advice that’s tailored to your needs and situation.
How much alcohol is too much? Michigan State professor and physician James J. Galligan said in an interview with Self, “There are many drugs that can interact with alcohol resulting in loss of memory and consciousness … Even one or two drinks can interact with some drugs to produce severe intoxication and potentially loss of consciousness in some people.”
Another physician, David Cutler, clarifies that having a single drink probably won’t be the end of the world. Still, it’s not a great idea: “The problem is that people often think that if they feel OK after having one drink, they can have two, and things go downhill from there. Also, just because you’re probably OK if you stick with one drink doesn’t mean you can’t have a bad reaction. ‘It’s not that you’ll never have one, it’s just unlikely.’”
To help you stay safe while taking Mucinex — as well as after you recover — consider these tips:
Once you’re feeling better, you’ll be glad that alcohol didn’t mess with the healing process. Plus, you now have some tools to help you navigate alcohol-related situations well into the post-Mucinex future.
In the end, we all get a visit from Mr. Mucus sometimes — it’s part of life. However, adding alcohol to the mix will only make the situation worse. As writer A.J. Jacobs observes in Drop Dead Healthy: One Man's Humble Quest for Bodily Perfection, “The key to making healthy decisions is to respect your future self. Honor him or her. Treat him or her like you would treat a friend or a loved one.” Let’s appreciate the body that does so much for us and give it the love and care it deserves — our future self will thank us!
Mucinex used to run commercials featuring “Mr. Mucus,” the lovable green and slimy antihero that the sinus-saving, cold-clearing medicine promises to sweep out of your nasal passages. So when you wake up clogged up and groggy, your eyes stinging and your m’s sounding like b’s when you talk, reaching for that trusty bottle of Mucinex can bring much-needed relief. But then you remember that beer you had before bed. Is it safe to take Mucinex after drinking? Should you wait? Let’s find out more!
As Mr. Mucus shows us, Mucinex is quite the multitasker. The active ingredient, guaifenesin, helps loosen up mucus to flush it out of the body.
While it might sound like something that came out of test tubes in the lab, guaifenesin is as natural as it gets. According to The Encyclopedia of Toxicology, it was “originally derived from the guaiac tree and used by Native Americans for health purposes.” Having caught on to its medicinal magic, scientists began to synthesize it in 1912. However, it took 77 years for the FDA to officially approve Mucinex in 1989 and another 15 for Mr. Mucus to officially enter the scene as its mascot in 2004.
From pills to syrups, Mucinex comes in all shapes and sizes. It also “plays well” with other meds and is often combined with antihistamines, cough suppressants, and decongestants.
While Mucinex is a very popular version of guaifenesin (thanks in part to Mr. Mucus and his marketing power), the medication comes under many other brand aliases:
Many other pharmacies and stores might have their own brand as well; it’s a tried-and-true remedy for congestion!
In short, alcohol and Mucinex are not a great mix. To understand why, let’s first take a look at the common side effects Mucinex is known for:
None of these are a huge deal on their own, but what happens when we mix them with alcohol? Let’s find out why combining the two is asking for trouble.
Now that we have an idea of the side effects of Mucinex, we can see that adding alcohol to the mix isn’t the best idea. When we drink alcohol alongside Mucinex, we run the risk of worsening side effects:
All of these symptoms can only make us more miserable when we are sick. But there are even more dangers to drinking alcohol with Mucinex. Let’s take a look.
Guaifenesin and alcohol are both metabolized by the liver, which can get overwhelmed by the double task of digesting both. Even worse, overtasking the liver can lead to a buildup of acetaldehyde, which contributes to hangovers and can even cause serious illnesses in the long run.
Another potential pitfall with combining Mucinex and alcohol? Guaifenesin may not be the only med in the mix. Many formulas that contain it have other ingredients to tackle all those additional cold-related symptoms, such as body aches and pains, cough, headaches, and sinus pain. And once again, most of them are not booze-friendly either:
If we’re nursing a cold, it’s better to avoid alcohol altogether. It will not only keep us safe but help us recover faster!
Finally, mixing alcohol and Mucinex doesn’t do us any favors when it comes to the reason we’re taking Mucinex in the first place.
For one thing, alcohol can throw a wrench in the workings of our immune system and isn’t the best ally in recovery from illness in general. (For more details, take a look at our blog “Alcohol's Impact on the Immune System.”)
Moreover, alcohol is a notorious diuretic that inhibits the release of the hormone in charge of telling our kidneys to hold on to water. And while Mucinex isn’t dehydrating per se, the cold itself is. So, adding booze to the mix dries up our body — and especially our sensitive nasal passages — even more.
Doctors say to wait at least 12 hours to be safe. But if you have any concerns or are taking additional medications, always check with yours! They know you best and will be able to offer advice that’s tailored to your needs and situation.
How much alcohol is too much? Michigan State professor and physician James J. Galligan said in an interview with Self, “There are many drugs that can interact with alcohol resulting in loss of memory and consciousness … Even one or two drinks can interact with some drugs to produce severe intoxication and potentially loss of consciousness in some people.”
Another physician, David Cutler, clarifies that having a single drink probably won’t be the end of the world. Still, it’s not a great idea: “The problem is that people often think that if they feel OK after having one drink, they can have two, and things go downhill from there. Also, just because you’re probably OK if you stick with one drink doesn’t mean you can’t have a bad reaction. ‘It’s not that you’ll never have one, it’s just unlikely.’”
To help you stay safe while taking Mucinex — as well as after you recover — consider these tips:
Once you’re feeling better, you’ll be glad that alcohol didn’t mess with the healing process. Plus, you now have some tools to help you navigate alcohol-related situations well into the post-Mucinex future.
In the end, we all get a visit from Mr. Mucus sometimes — it’s part of life. However, adding alcohol to the mix will only make the situation worse. As writer A.J. Jacobs observes in Drop Dead Healthy: One Man's Humble Quest for Bodily Perfection, “The key to making healthy decisions is to respect your future self. Honor him or her. Treat him or her like you would treat a friend or a loved one.” Let’s appreciate the body that does so much for us and give it the love and care it deserves — our future self will thank us!
Struggling with heartburn? Taking Prilosec? Planning on drinking this weekend? Here’s what you need to know about omeprazole and alcohol.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
You just got back from lunch break, and you’ve got that familiar fire in your chest and bitter taste in your mouth. And you don’t dare bend over to pick up that paper you just dropped for fear your lunch will resurface. Ugh — heartburn again. It seems like you can’t eat or drink anything these days without instant regret.
Your doctor recommended Prilosec, and it’s been helping so far, but you have a wedding to attend this weekend. Can you take omeprazole with alcohol?
Omeprazole is a medicine —a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to be precise — used to reduce the amount of acid in the stomach. Often known by the brand name Prilosec, omeprazole is used to treat frequent heartburn or conditions where too much acid is produced in the stomach:
In these conditions, there is too much acid in the stomach, and that acid is pushed from the stomach to the esophagus, causing us some unpleasant symptoms.
As a PPI, omeprazole slows gastric acid secretion by inhibiting an enzyme in the final step of the stomach’s acid secretion process. Does this mean that if we take PPIs we won’t have any stomach acid? No, PPIs only inhibit 66-80% of acid output in our stomach. Having less acid in our stomach can help reduce the instances of GERD, help our esophagus heal if we have erosive esophagitis, or rid us of gastric ulcers.
Prilosec is available to buy over-the-counter; however, it is not recommended to take it for more than 14 days without consulting a doctor first. While it is generally safe and effective, some people do experience side effects:
Extreme doses of 2400 mg (120 times higher than the recommended dose) can lead to more troublesome side effects:
These symptoms are typically short-lived and don’t cause serious harm, but it is always safest to stick to the recommended dose on the box.
From a molecular standpoint, Prilosec and alcohol do not specifically interact. However, as we learned above, alcohol can make our stomach produce more acid. If we are taking omeprazole, we are likely trying to reduce the acid in our stomach, so drinking alcohol may counteract the purpose of the medication. Essentially, alcohol can worsen our underlying problem of having too much stomach acid.
Furthermore, alcohol and omeprazole share side effects that can be heightened if we use them at the same time. For instance, both can cause headaches, dizziness, upset stomach, and nausea.
So we know there are problematic interactions between Prilosec and alcohol, but the question remains: can we drink alcohol with omeprazole?
The short answer is yes — there are no immediate dangers to drinking alcohol while taking omeprazole as there would be with sleeping pills. Drinking while on Prilosec doesn’t increase our chances of having severe side effects or an overdose of alcohol. However, most medical professionals suggest not drinking while on omeprazole since it can make our stomach issues worse. In the long run, continuously combining the two can lead to greater challenges:
So, if we are on omeprazole and we want to drink, how long should we wait between the two of them?
There is no straightforward answer, but we are supposed to take omeprazole 30-60 minutes before we eat. Likewise, we should wait at least 30-60 minutes before or after drinking alcohol.
It is not recommended to drink alcohol while on Prilosec, but there is no risk to our immediate health if we do. Still, there are precautions we can take to drink alcohol safely while on omeprazole:
The bottom line is that drinking alcohol while on omeprazole can make our acid reflux symptoms worse. If you’re experiencing daily discomfort due to heartburn, it is best to avoid alcohol altogether.
Ultimately, drinking alcohol while on omeprazole is safe but not recommended. There is no immediate risk of developing severe side effects or overdose, but if we are heavy drinkers and on PPIs long term, we are at greater risk for developing liver disease. Consult your prescribing physician before drinking alcohol if you are on Omeprazole for a chronic condition.
You just got back from lunch break, and you’ve got that familiar fire in your chest and bitter taste in your mouth. And you don’t dare bend over to pick up that paper you just dropped for fear your lunch will resurface. Ugh — heartburn again. It seems like you can’t eat or drink anything these days without instant regret.
Your doctor recommended Prilosec, and it’s been helping so far, but you have a wedding to attend this weekend. Can you take omeprazole with alcohol?
Omeprazole is a medicine —a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) to be precise — used to reduce the amount of acid in the stomach. Often known by the brand name Prilosec, omeprazole is used to treat frequent heartburn or conditions where too much acid is produced in the stomach:
In these conditions, there is too much acid in the stomach, and that acid is pushed from the stomach to the esophagus, causing us some unpleasant symptoms.
As a PPI, omeprazole slows gastric acid secretion by inhibiting an enzyme in the final step of the stomach’s acid secretion process. Does this mean that if we take PPIs we won’t have any stomach acid? No, PPIs only inhibit 66-80% of acid output in our stomach. Having less acid in our stomach can help reduce the instances of GERD, help our esophagus heal if we have erosive esophagitis, or rid us of gastric ulcers.
Prilosec is available to buy over-the-counter; however, it is not recommended to take it for more than 14 days without consulting a doctor first. While it is generally safe and effective, some people do experience side effects:
Extreme doses of 2400 mg (120 times higher than the recommended dose) can lead to more troublesome side effects:
These symptoms are typically short-lived and don’t cause serious harm, but it is always safest to stick to the recommended dose on the box.
From a molecular standpoint, Prilosec and alcohol do not specifically interact. However, as we learned above, alcohol can make our stomach produce more acid. If we are taking omeprazole, we are likely trying to reduce the acid in our stomach, so drinking alcohol may counteract the purpose of the medication. Essentially, alcohol can worsen our underlying problem of having too much stomach acid.
Furthermore, alcohol and omeprazole share side effects that can be heightened if we use them at the same time. For instance, both can cause headaches, dizziness, upset stomach, and nausea.
So we know there are problematic interactions between Prilosec and alcohol, but the question remains: can we drink alcohol with omeprazole?
The short answer is yes — there are no immediate dangers to drinking alcohol while taking omeprazole as there would be with sleeping pills. Drinking while on Prilosec doesn’t increase our chances of having severe side effects or an overdose of alcohol. However, most medical professionals suggest not drinking while on omeprazole since it can make our stomach issues worse. In the long run, continuously combining the two can lead to greater challenges:
So, if we are on omeprazole and we want to drink, how long should we wait between the two of them?
There is no straightforward answer, but we are supposed to take omeprazole 30-60 minutes before we eat. Likewise, we should wait at least 30-60 minutes before or after drinking alcohol.
It is not recommended to drink alcohol while on Prilosec, but there is no risk to our immediate health if we do. Still, there are precautions we can take to drink alcohol safely while on omeprazole:
The bottom line is that drinking alcohol while on omeprazole can make our acid reflux symptoms worse. If you’re experiencing daily discomfort due to heartburn, it is best to avoid alcohol altogether.
Ultimately, drinking alcohol while on omeprazole is safe but not recommended. There is no immediate risk of developing severe side effects or overdose, but if we are heavy drinkers and on PPIs long term, we are at greater risk for developing liver disease. Consult your prescribing physician before drinking alcohol if you are on Omeprazole for a chronic condition.
Can you drink on Bactrim? Find out the science behind why the two might not be a great combo in our latest blog.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
You’ve been sick with an ear infection for days. Your head feels like there’s been nonstop road construction going on inside; you’re feeling drained (literally — must be all that stuff oozing out of your ear), and everyone’s voice sounds like they’re trapped inside a fish tank. But you just got some antibiotics from your doctor and today is a little better, so you think, hey, maybe I’ll have a beer with dinner?
But then you glance over at the bottle of Bactrim you’ve been prescribed, and it says clearly, “Don’t take with alcohol.” Now what? “Will I die if I drink on Bactrim?” Probably not, right? You text one friend who says, “Go for it! Those labels exaggerate.” But then you text your sister, and she remembers something about Bactrim being different. Who's right? Is the Bactrim and alcohol interaction truly dangerous? In short, can you drink on Bactrim?
Bactrim is an antibiotic containing sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. It’s used to treat bacterial infections of the middle ear, as well as urinary, respiratory, and intestinal infections. Occasionally, it might also be used to prevent some types of pneumonia.
But what are antibiotics in general? And what are they for? Let’s take a brief look.
Although we tend to associate antibiotics with the modern era, they’ve actually been around since ancient times. Our ancestors from ancient Egypt, Nubia, China, Serbia, Greece, and Rome all figured out that certain herbs and types of mold could cure infectious diseases. Although they didn’t understand the chemical mechanism, they put antibiotics into practice in their medicine.
Literally meaning “opposing life,” “antibiosis” was first scientifically described by Louis Pasteur and Robert Koch in 1877, when the pair laid the groundwork for the germ theory of diseases by showing that microorganisms were responsible for the spoiling of products such as milk. They found that other microorganisms (i.e., antibiotics) could inhibit the growth of their harmful counterparts.
As a Nature article explains, antibiotics officially came onto the scene when they were accidentally discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1928. Surprisingly, we have Fleming’s notoriously messy workspace to thank for this breakthrough! After leaving a few petri dishes with staphylococci bacteria cultures scattered around before taking off for vacation, Fleming came back to a surprising find: some of the dishes had grown a fungus (the basis for penicillin) that seemed to have killed off the disease-causing bacterial strain! (Who knew that a messy desk could set off a chain of events that revolutionized modern medicine and ultimately led to a Nobel Prize!)
Penicillin use skyrocketed in the 1940s, to the point where it could be easily purchased at any corner drug store virtually without restrictions or medical supervision. However, the heyday of antibiotics has been followed by a bit of a backlash. Scientists noticed that having too many bacteria killers out and about wiped out the good strains along with the bad, and bacteria started to adapt to be resistant to known antibiotics. Since then, it’s been a race to keep up and develop new approaches that don’t create drug-resistant strains that can’t be treated.
Today, there are over 100 types of antibiotics on the market — including Bactrim — with specialized targets and various mechanisms of action. They have to be prescribed by a doctor, and it’s important to follow the instructions about their use to get the most out of the treatment without causing unintended harm.
Like any medicine, Bactrim comes with side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. Sometimes, however, the side effects might get a bit more serious.
But before you go swearing off Bactrim altogether, rest assured, these last few side effects are extremely rare! Bactrim has been used for decades and is generally well-tolerated by most people.
Is there anything that makes Bactrim stand out from its counterparts? Yes! Bactrim takes a dual-action approach and gets metabolized in a way that’s a bit different. Let’s explore a bit further.
So what about mixing antibiotics with booze: is it a no-go? Sort of okay? Or do all those bottles say “Don’t mix with alcohol” out of an abundance of (possibly unnecessary) caution?
According to a 2020 research review, there are a few possible outcomes of adding booze to the antibiotic mix.
When it comes to mixing alcohol and Bactrim in particular, there are special considerations to keep in mind.
If the word “disulfiram” sounds a bit familiar (we are talking about this in the context of alcohol, after all), you’re on the right track! Disulfiram is a popular medication prescribed to those committed to sobriety who want an extra psychological barrier to manage cravings on a daily basis.
Disulfiram inhibits certain processes in alcohol metabolism, prolonging the negative feelings associated with alcohol. Imagine the hangover from hell that doesn’t seem to end. Knowing that drinking on disulfiram will wreak all kinds of havoc can serve as a deterrent for many who are struggling with urges. By taking it at the beginning of the day, we’ve decided for ourselves that drinking today just isn’t worth it!
Still, when we’re talking about Bactrim, the risk of a disulfiram-like interaction is actually pretty low. Bactrim is not disulfiram (and is less likely to cause this particular problem than some of its antibiotic cousins), so mixing it with alcohol probably won’t send you to the hospital. Still, it’s not a great idea — and probably won’t make you feel that great.
Doctors say that it’s best to wait at least 48 hours after completing a course of Bactrim before drinking. The rationale behind the waiting period? Allowing the body to process the antibiotic fully.
“I Drank Already, Will I Be Okay?”
Probably. If you had a drink while on Bactrim and are feeling all right, there shouldn’t be much to worry about (though it’s not a great idea to do this on a regular basis). Of course, if you have any concerns at all, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a medical professional right away!
If you’re finding it hard to stay away from alcohol while on Bactrim, here are a few tips to help.
In the end, we’re taking Bactrim because we’re sick, and we’re probably feeling far from our best. So while having a drink on this medication probably won’t put us in immediate danger, we’re not really doing ourselves any favors either. After all, good-old ginger or chamomile tea might just do the trick when it comes to easing symptoms and allowing our body to get the rest and healing it needs.
As writer Leo Tolstoy once said, “Our body is a machine for living. It is organized for that, it is its nature. Let life go on in it unhindered and let it defend itself.” (Well, maybe with a little help from Bactrim!)
You’ve been sick with an ear infection for days. Your head feels like there’s been nonstop road construction going on inside; you’re feeling drained (literally — must be all that stuff oozing out of your ear), and everyone’s voice sounds like they’re trapped inside a fish tank. But you just got some antibiotics from your doctor and today is a little better, so you think, hey, maybe I’ll have a beer with dinner?
But then you glance over at the bottle of Bactrim you’ve been prescribed, and it says clearly, “Don’t take with alcohol.” Now what? “Will I die if I drink on Bactrim?” Probably not, right? You text one friend who says, “Go for it! Those labels exaggerate.” But then you text your sister, and she remembers something about Bactrim being different. Who's right? Is the Bactrim and alcohol interaction truly dangerous? In short, can you drink on Bactrim?
Bactrim is an antibiotic containing sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim. It’s used to treat bacterial infections of the middle ear, as well as urinary, respiratory, and intestinal infections. Occasionally, it might also be used to prevent some types of pneumonia.
But what are antibiotics in general? And what are they for? Let’s take a brief look.
Although we tend to associate antibiotics with the modern era, they’ve actually been around since ancient times. Our ancestors from ancient Egypt, Nubia, China, Serbia, Greece, and Rome all figured out that certain herbs and types of mold could cure infectious diseases. Although they didn’t understand the chemical mechanism, they put antibiotics into practice in their medicine.
Literally meaning “opposing life,” “antibiosis” was first scientifically described by Louis Pasteur and Robert Koch in 1877, when the pair laid the groundwork for the germ theory of diseases by showing that microorganisms were responsible for the spoiling of products such as milk. They found that other microorganisms (i.e., antibiotics) could inhibit the growth of their harmful counterparts.
As a Nature article explains, antibiotics officially came onto the scene when they were accidentally discovered by Alexander Fleming in 1928. Surprisingly, we have Fleming’s notoriously messy workspace to thank for this breakthrough! After leaving a few petri dishes with staphylococci bacteria cultures scattered around before taking off for vacation, Fleming came back to a surprising find: some of the dishes had grown a fungus (the basis for penicillin) that seemed to have killed off the disease-causing bacterial strain! (Who knew that a messy desk could set off a chain of events that revolutionized modern medicine and ultimately led to a Nobel Prize!)
Penicillin use skyrocketed in the 1940s, to the point where it could be easily purchased at any corner drug store virtually without restrictions or medical supervision. However, the heyday of antibiotics has been followed by a bit of a backlash. Scientists noticed that having too many bacteria killers out and about wiped out the good strains along with the bad, and bacteria started to adapt to be resistant to known antibiotics. Since then, it’s been a race to keep up and develop new approaches that don’t create drug-resistant strains that can’t be treated.
Today, there are over 100 types of antibiotics on the market — including Bactrim — with specialized targets and various mechanisms of action. They have to be prescribed by a doctor, and it’s important to follow the instructions about their use to get the most out of the treatment without causing unintended harm.
Like any medicine, Bactrim comes with side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. Sometimes, however, the side effects might get a bit more serious.
But before you go swearing off Bactrim altogether, rest assured, these last few side effects are extremely rare! Bactrim has been used for decades and is generally well-tolerated by most people.
Is there anything that makes Bactrim stand out from its counterparts? Yes! Bactrim takes a dual-action approach and gets metabolized in a way that’s a bit different. Let’s explore a bit further.
So what about mixing antibiotics with booze: is it a no-go? Sort of okay? Or do all those bottles say “Don’t mix with alcohol” out of an abundance of (possibly unnecessary) caution?
According to a 2020 research review, there are a few possible outcomes of adding booze to the antibiotic mix.
When it comes to mixing alcohol and Bactrim in particular, there are special considerations to keep in mind.
If the word “disulfiram” sounds a bit familiar (we are talking about this in the context of alcohol, after all), you’re on the right track! Disulfiram is a popular medication prescribed to those committed to sobriety who want an extra psychological barrier to manage cravings on a daily basis.
Disulfiram inhibits certain processes in alcohol metabolism, prolonging the negative feelings associated with alcohol. Imagine the hangover from hell that doesn’t seem to end. Knowing that drinking on disulfiram will wreak all kinds of havoc can serve as a deterrent for many who are struggling with urges. By taking it at the beginning of the day, we’ve decided for ourselves that drinking today just isn’t worth it!
Still, when we’re talking about Bactrim, the risk of a disulfiram-like interaction is actually pretty low. Bactrim is not disulfiram (and is less likely to cause this particular problem than some of its antibiotic cousins), so mixing it with alcohol probably won’t send you to the hospital. Still, it’s not a great idea — and probably won’t make you feel that great.
Doctors say that it’s best to wait at least 48 hours after completing a course of Bactrim before drinking. The rationale behind the waiting period? Allowing the body to process the antibiotic fully.
“I Drank Already, Will I Be Okay?”
Probably. If you had a drink while on Bactrim and are feeling all right, there shouldn’t be much to worry about (though it’s not a great idea to do this on a regular basis). Of course, if you have any concerns at all, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a medical professional right away!
If you’re finding it hard to stay away from alcohol while on Bactrim, here are a few tips to help.
In the end, we’re taking Bactrim because we’re sick, and we’re probably feeling far from our best. So while having a drink on this medication probably won’t put us in immediate danger, we’re not really doing ourselves any favors either. After all, good-old ginger or chamomile tea might just do the trick when it comes to easing symptoms and allowing our body to get the rest and healing it needs.
As writer Leo Tolstoy once said, “Our body is a machine for living. It is organized for that, it is its nature. Let life go on in it unhindered and let it defend itself.” (Well, maybe with a little help from Bactrim!)
Can you drink on Dramamine, or is it too risky? Read about the possible dangers of this combination in our latest blog.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Nobody likes to feel nauseous. It’s that indescribable feeling — not quite “pain” but somehow just as bad. And often there seems to be no escape from it. Philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre dedicated a whole novel — Nausea — to the pervasive sensation. He writes, “The nausea has not left me and I don't believe it will leave me so soon; but I no longer have to bear it, it is no longer an illness or a passing fit: it is I.”
So if you tend to get nauseous — on planes, buses, that spinning teacup ride at Disney World — you probably have your travel kit stocked with over-the-counter nausea aids (if only they were around when Sartre’s protagonist was grappling with his affliction!).
But wait a second, is it okay to pop a Dramamine before knocking back a glass of wine on the plane or have a beer after you get off that bumpy bus ride? What are the dangers of mixing Dramamine and alcohol — can you drink on Dramamine at all? And what about using Dramamine for hangover-related nausea? Let’s find out more!
Unfortunately, motion sickness is a part of life for many of us. It can show up during our daily commute to work, in the back seat of an Uber, and even on vacation trips. As scientist Natasha Tuznik tells UC Davis Health, “A study conducted in 2019 found that almost everyone has experienced or will experience motion sickness at some point in their lifetime.”
This “sickness” goes way back — in fact, the word comes from the Greek naus, meaning “ship.” These days, of course, there are many other modes of transportation that seem to conspire to ruin our transit experience.
In a study published in Ergonomics, as many as 28.4% of people surveyed reported feeling ill during a total of 110 hours of test drives that included 5 types of vehicles and 17 different drivers. Moreover, 12.8% reported experiencing nausea, while 1.7% brave participants admitted to “losing their lunch” during the experiment!
Riding in cars is part of modern life. Thankfully, so is modern science! Enter: Dramamine.
Dramamine (Dimenhydrinate) is an antihistamine used to kick the most unpleasant symptoms of motion sickness (such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness) right to the curb. In fact, it can even prevent them from starting in the first place!
Know Dramamine by another name? That’s quite possible. According to ScienceDirect, this trusty travel companion has many aliases:
Phew! That’s quite a list. Whichever alias you know it by, they all work the same way — and the mechanism is pretty clever!
Dramamine helps our body maintain a sense of balance during those bumpy bus rides and turbulent takeovers. It works by blocking certain signals in the brain that trigger these uncomfortable symptoms, providing much-needed relief during travel. While taking a pill when symptoms kick in is an option (it’s never too late!), many travelers opt for taking the precaution of popping one an hour or so before even getting on the bus (or plane, or car).
As for dosage, the standard for adults is 50-100 mg every 4-6 hours, with 400 mg per day being the limit.
While Dramamine is all about reducing the unpleasant “side effects” of travel, it comes with a bit of baggage of its own. The common side effects are usually pretty mild:
So what happens when we add alcohol to the mix? There are a couple of reasons why the two are not great “travel companions”:
Dramamine can make us drowsy on its own, but with alcohol in the picture, the effect gets much more pronounced — sometimes to a dangerous degree. As a depressant, alcohol numbs our senses and slows cognitive processing while impairing our motor skills.
The reason has to do with the way it affects our brain chemistry. Alcohol tends to increase the activity of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter that slows down the nervous system, while simultaneously toning down the effects of glutamate, its “excitatory” counterpart. The result? Our reflexes take a hit, our cognitive abilities are dulled, and we feel drowsy.
The booze-dramamine combo can dangerously enhance impairment, raising the risk of accidents and injuries, especially in activities requiring alertness, such as driving. However, even if we’re not behind the wheel, the extra grogginess can get in the way. (After all, nobody wants to miss their connecting flight!) And if we end up having several drinks, we could get into dangerous waters by slowing down our central nervous system so much that it becomes a health risk.
Alcohol is notorious for leaving us parched and depleted of electrolytes, and adding Dramamine to the mix can make things worse. This dehydrating duo will leave you twice as thirsty — especially after a long plane ride!
Mixing alcohol and Dramamine can also worsen other side effects, such as dry mouth, blurred vision, and dizziness. If we’re already feeling drowsy, this could really spell trouble, especially for those of us who are a bit older.
You might be wondering, “How long after taking Dramamine can I drink alcohol?” The effects of the medication can last from 4 to 6 hours, and it takes about 1 to 3 hours for its peak effects to show up. Given its half-life, it's best to wait at least 24 hours after taking Dramamine before drinking so your body can fully process the medication. Waiting an extra few hours might reduce the risk of adverse interactions even more.
Is one drink okay to have with Dramamine? Not really. Even one drink can significantly increase the side effects and amp up the risks, so it's best to skip booze entirely until the medication has cleared from your system.
Given that nausea is a common hangover symptom, it seems that it would make sense to reach for a Dramamine pill for relief.
But is it a good idea? Not so much.
It’s true that Dramamine can potentially alleviate some symptoms of a hangover, such as nausea and a sense of balance disruption. However, Dramamine’s sedative effects can add to the grogginess and cognitive fuzziness often experienced during a hangover.
Moreover, taking Dramamine to combat hangover symptoms can be risky if alcohol is still present in the system. The combination can lead to increased drowsiness, dehydration, and further impairment of judgment and motor skills.
Moreover, it’s also worth noting that while Dramamine tends to be safe for many people when it comes to potential misuse, for some it’s been known to be habit-forming (sometimes very much so — we’re talking large daily doses). If we have a history of substance misuse, it’s important to be careful and mindful about our Dramamine intake.
Finally, many of us might have noticed that Dramamine has a travel partner that usually shares the same shelf in the drug store — Bonine. Is this a better choice to take along for the ride if we know we might drink?
Bonine (meclizine) is also marketed as a motion sickness aid but one that claims to work all day — as opposed to Dramamine’s 4- to 6-hour window. Unfortunately for those who might have been hoping Bonine could work as a booze-friendly alternative to Dramamine, this isn’t the case. Bonine shares the same risk of central nervous system suppression — along with increased dehydration and intensified side effects.
To ensure safety, it’s best to avoid alcohol when taking any motion sickness medication.
Ready for some tips on how to relieve nausea and hangovers more effectively (and maybe prevent them altogether)? Here we go!
If you’re finding that alcohol is taking up a bit too much air time in your life in general — whether or not Dramamine is part of the picture — here are some additional tips for the journey.
Nausea is, unfortunately, a part of life, and it’s great that Dramamine is here to help. But the not-so-helpful interactions between this medication and alcohol don’t have to be part of your journey. Happy booze-free, hangover-free travels!
Nobody likes to feel nauseous. It’s that indescribable feeling — not quite “pain” but somehow just as bad. And often there seems to be no escape from it. Philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre dedicated a whole novel — Nausea — to the pervasive sensation. He writes, “The nausea has not left me and I don't believe it will leave me so soon; but I no longer have to bear it, it is no longer an illness or a passing fit: it is I.”
So if you tend to get nauseous — on planes, buses, that spinning teacup ride at Disney World — you probably have your travel kit stocked with over-the-counter nausea aids (if only they were around when Sartre’s protagonist was grappling with his affliction!).
But wait a second, is it okay to pop a Dramamine before knocking back a glass of wine on the plane or have a beer after you get off that bumpy bus ride? What are the dangers of mixing Dramamine and alcohol — can you drink on Dramamine at all? And what about using Dramamine for hangover-related nausea? Let’s find out more!
Unfortunately, motion sickness is a part of life for many of us. It can show up during our daily commute to work, in the back seat of an Uber, and even on vacation trips. As scientist Natasha Tuznik tells UC Davis Health, “A study conducted in 2019 found that almost everyone has experienced or will experience motion sickness at some point in their lifetime.”
This “sickness” goes way back — in fact, the word comes from the Greek naus, meaning “ship.” These days, of course, there are many other modes of transportation that seem to conspire to ruin our transit experience.
In a study published in Ergonomics, as many as 28.4% of people surveyed reported feeling ill during a total of 110 hours of test drives that included 5 types of vehicles and 17 different drivers. Moreover, 12.8% reported experiencing nausea, while 1.7% brave participants admitted to “losing their lunch” during the experiment!
Riding in cars is part of modern life. Thankfully, so is modern science! Enter: Dramamine.
Dramamine (Dimenhydrinate) is an antihistamine used to kick the most unpleasant symptoms of motion sickness (such as nausea, vomiting, and dizziness) right to the curb. In fact, it can even prevent them from starting in the first place!
Know Dramamine by another name? That’s quite possible. According to ScienceDirect, this trusty travel companion has many aliases:
Phew! That’s quite a list. Whichever alias you know it by, they all work the same way — and the mechanism is pretty clever!
Dramamine helps our body maintain a sense of balance during those bumpy bus rides and turbulent takeovers. It works by blocking certain signals in the brain that trigger these uncomfortable symptoms, providing much-needed relief during travel. While taking a pill when symptoms kick in is an option (it’s never too late!), many travelers opt for taking the precaution of popping one an hour or so before even getting on the bus (or plane, or car).
As for dosage, the standard for adults is 50-100 mg every 4-6 hours, with 400 mg per day being the limit.
While Dramamine is all about reducing the unpleasant “side effects” of travel, it comes with a bit of baggage of its own. The common side effects are usually pretty mild:
So what happens when we add alcohol to the mix? There are a couple of reasons why the two are not great “travel companions”:
Dramamine can make us drowsy on its own, but with alcohol in the picture, the effect gets much more pronounced — sometimes to a dangerous degree. As a depressant, alcohol numbs our senses and slows cognitive processing while impairing our motor skills.
The reason has to do with the way it affects our brain chemistry. Alcohol tends to increase the activity of GABA, an inhibitory neurotransmitter that slows down the nervous system, while simultaneously toning down the effects of glutamate, its “excitatory” counterpart. The result? Our reflexes take a hit, our cognitive abilities are dulled, and we feel drowsy.
The booze-dramamine combo can dangerously enhance impairment, raising the risk of accidents and injuries, especially in activities requiring alertness, such as driving. However, even if we’re not behind the wheel, the extra grogginess can get in the way. (After all, nobody wants to miss their connecting flight!) And if we end up having several drinks, we could get into dangerous waters by slowing down our central nervous system so much that it becomes a health risk.
Alcohol is notorious for leaving us parched and depleted of electrolytes, and adding Dramamine to the mix can make things worse. This dehydrating duo will leave you twice as thirsty — especially after a long plane ride!
Mixing alcohol and Dramamine can also worsen other side effects, such as dry mouth, blurred vision, and dizziness. If we’re already feeling drowsy, this could really spell trouble, especially for those of us who are a bit older.
You might be wondering, “How long after taking Dramamine can I drink alcohol?” The effects of the medication can last from 4 to 6 hours, and it takes about 1 to 3 hours for its peak effects to show up. Given its half-life, it's best to wait at least 24 hours after taking Dramamine before drinking so your body can fully process the medication. Waiting an extra few hours might reduce the risk of adverse interactions even more.
Is one drink okay to have with Dramamine? Not really. Even one drink can significantly increase the side effects and amp up the risks, so it's best to skip booze entirely until the medication has cleared from your system.
Given that nausea is a common hangover symptom, it seems that it would make sense to reach for a Dramamine pill for relief.
But is it a good idea? Not so much.
It’s true that Dramamine can potentially alleviate some symptoms of a hangover, such as nausea and a sense of balance disruption. However, Dramamine’s sedative effects can add to the grogginess and cognitive fuzziness often experienced during a hangover.
Moreover, taking Dramamine to combat hangover symptoms can be risky if alcohol is still present in the system. The combination can lead to increased drowsiness, dehydration, and further impairment of judgment and motor skills.
Moreover, it’s also worth noting that while Dramamine tends to be safe for many people when it comes to potential misuse, for some it’s been known to be habit-forming (sometimes very much so — we’re talking large daily doses). If we have a history of substance misuse, it’s important to be careful and mindful about our Dramamine intake.
Finally, many of us might have noticed that Dramamine has a travel partner that usually shares the same shelf in the drug store — Bonine. Is this a better choice to take along for the ride if we know we might drink?
Bonine (meclizine) is also marketed as a motion sickness aid but one that claims to work all day — as opposed to Dramamine’s 4- to 6-hour window. Unfortunately for those who might have been hoping Bonine could work as a booze-friendly alternative to Dramamine, this isn’t the case. Bonine shares the same risk of central nervous system suppression — along with increased dehydration and intensified side effects.
To ensure safety, it’s best to avoid alcohol when taking any motion sickness medication.
Ready for some tips on how to relieve nausea and hangovers more effectively (and maybe prevent them altogether)? Here we go!
If you’re finding that alcohol is taking up a bit too much air time in your life in general — whether or not Dramamine is part of the picture — here are some additional tips for the journey.
Nausea is, unfortunately, a part of life, and it’s great that Dramamine is here to help. But the not-so-helpful interactions between this medication and alcohol don’t have to be part of your journey. Happy booze-free, hangover-free travels!
What can you not take with cephalexin? Well, drinking might be off the table for a while. If your doctor prescribes you cephalexin, alcohol may not be the best idea.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
It’s tough when a urinary tract infection disrupts your routine. It seems like those ultra-uncomfortable, ice-pick-painful symptoms find you at the worst possible moments — moments when you’re stressed and stretched thin.
When you finally carve out an hour for urgent care, the doctor asks you a few quick questions. She collects a urine sample before calling in a prescription.
When you pick up the pills, you see an unfamiliar name on the label: cephalexin. How is this drug going to affect your plans? You find yourself thinking about the upcoming weekend. What about your second date at that pop-up bar? Can you drink alcohol with cephalexin?
Cephalexin belongs to a class of medications known as cephalosporin antibiotics, which work by destroying bacteria in the body. It is available under the brand names Daxbia, Keflex, Biocef, and Keftab, among others. Let’s explore this drug’s purpose, primary side effects, and interactions with other substances.
Doctors prescribe cephalexin for bacterial infections, including pneumonia, upper respiratory infections (URIs), and urinary tract infections (UTIs). It’s also used when bacteria take up residence in the skin, ears, genitals, and bones. We may have received a cephalexin prescription after contracting certain strains of staph (Staphylococcus aureus) or strep (Streptococcus pyogenes).
It comes in one of three forms: a tablet, a capsule, or a liquid suspension. We’ll need to take it as prescribed; usually, that’s once every six to 12 hours. We’ll want to continue taking this medication until we run out of it, even if our symptoms resolve within the first few days. Quitting earlier may place us at risk of a rebound infection.
Contrary to popular belief, antibiotics like cephalexin don’t work on viral illnesses like the common cold or the flu. Using these drugs unnecessarily can increase antibiotic resistance, which makes these medications less effective over time.
Fortunately, most of us will probably tolerate cephalexin very well. The most common side effect is diarrhea, followed by headache, nausea, and unusual vaginal discharge. In some cases, we might feel fatigued, confused, or agitated. If you have any of these symptoms for more than two days (or if they are particularly severe), reach out to your care team.
In rare cases, some people experience flu-like symptoms, including chills, stomach pain, dizziness, and fever. If you experience an allergic or severe skin reaction — characterized by itching, a rash, blisters, peeling of the skin, difficulty breathing, bloody stools, hallucinations, or swollen lymph nodes — seek emergency medical attention.
It is worth noting that those of us with diabetes may get false positive tests for sugar in our urine while taking this drug. We should talk to our doctor about this if it occurs; ideally, they’ll let us know what to expect before we fill the script.
Cephalexin won’t work for everyone. We should not take this drug if we have a penicillin allergy, which may make us more likely to experience adverse effects. We’ll also want to tell our healthcare provider about any medications, vitamins, and supplements we’re currently taking, as this drug tends to interact with metformin and probenecid.
When asking, “What can you not take with cephalexin?”, we want to remember that this drug can seriously interact with supplements. We should avoid taking any zinc while on this medication. Zinc interferes with the absorption of cephalexin, reducing its concentration in the bloodstream and rendering it less effective. Pro tip: Check your multivitamin for zinc or bring it to your doctor’s appointment before starting cephalexin.
If this antibiotic interacts with popular prescription drugs and over-the-counter vitamins, will drinking alcohol affect its efficacy?
Some cephalosporin antibiotics react strongly with alcohol. For example, mixing cefotetan or cefoperazone with a few after-work cocktails can result in gastrointestinal or cardiac distress. Symptoms include irregular heartbeat, blood pressure changes, severe nausea, and vomiting. However, this isn’t the case for all antibiotics. So, can you drink on cephalexin?
Technically, it’s safe to drink on cephalexin. We won’t experience the host of uncomfortable (or life-threatening) symptoms we might usually associate with antibiotics and alcohol. However, that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to imbibe while taking this medication.
Cephalexin and alcohol interact in three key ways. If we drink on cephalexin, we may deal with worse side effects, a weakened immune system, and a longer recovery time. Here’s how it works:
So while it’s not necessarily dangerous to mix cephalexin and alcohol, it is certainly not beneficial.
If we want to avoid the interactions outlined above, we’ll probably want to abstain. Most of us will be on this medication for a maximum of 10 days, which isn’t long in the grand scheme of things. Consider framing this time as a break from hangovers while you focus on getting well. Plan to wait at least eight hours after your last dose of cephalexin to drink again.
While drinking doesn’t directly cause UTIs, heavy drinking creates a perfect environment where these nasty infections can thrive.
Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it increases our urinary frequency. The more we use the bathroom, the more likely we are to become dehydrated, especially if we’re under the influence. The resulting dehydration can worsen our UTI symptoms, weaken our immune system, and make it more difficult for our body to overcome an existing infection, even if we’re already taking medication. Sound familiar?
Furthermore, alcohol is pretty acidic. This makes it especially irritating for the delicate tissue lining the inside of our bladder (which is already going through a lot!). Even when we’re healthy, heavy alcohol exposure and its associated inflammation can lead to a form of bladder discomfort known as cystitis. Unfortunately, the symptoms of alcohol-induced cystitis and UTIs are almost indistinguishable, making future diagnosis difficult.
All this is to say: if we’re taking cephalexin for a UTI or any other infection, we may want to rethink those drinks.
We can still enjoy ourselves while bouncing back from bacterial infections. Below are a few boozeless beverages for those of us avoiding alcohol on cephalexin.
We hope these spirit-free sips bring you joy in the days ahead. Remember to check with a healthcare professional before altering your diet, especially if you’ve been prescribed a new medication.
If you’re struggling to take a break from drinking, you’re not alone. It can be difficult to stay substance-free for the days or weeks it takes to battle an infection. If you need help staying on track, consider seeking support from Reframe during your course of cephalexin.
Reframe is a habit-cessation app powered by neuroscience. Our team includes recovery experts, academics, psychologists, and more. The proof is in our data — we’ve helped millions of people change their drinking habits for the better. To learn more, visit the App Store or Google Play today.
It’s tough when a urinary tract infection disrupts your routine. It seems like those ultra-uncomfortable, ice-pick-painful symptoms find you at the worst possible moments — moments when you’re stressed and stretched thin.
When you finally carve out an hour for urgent care, the doctor asks you a few quick questions. She collects a urine sample before calling in a prescription.
When you pick up the pills, you see an unfamiliar name on the label: cephalexin. How is this drug going to affect your plans? You find yourself thinking about the upcoming weekend. What about your second date at that pop-up bar? Can you drink alcohol with cephalexin?
Cephalexin belongs to a class of medications known as cephalosporin antibiotics, which work by destroying bacteria in the body. It is available under the brand names Daxbia, Keflex, Biocef, and Keftab, among others. Let’s explore this drug’s purpose, primary side effects, and interactions with other substances.
Doctors prescribe cephalexin for bacterial infections, including pneumonia, upper respiratory infections (URIs), and urinary tract infections (UTIs). It’s also used when bacteria take up residence in the skin, ears, genitals, and bones. We may have received a cephalexin prescription after contracting certain strains of staph (Staphylococcus aureus) or strep (Streptococcus pyogenes).
It comes in one of three forms: a tablet, a capsule, or a liquid suspension. We’ll need to take it as prescribed; usually, that’s once every six to 12 hours. We’ll want to continue taking this medication until we run out of it, even if our symptoms resolve within the first few days. Quitting earlier may place us at risk of a rebound infection.
Contrary to popular belief, antibiotics like cephalexin don’t work on viral illnesses like the common cold or the flu. Using these drugs unnecessarily can increase antibiotic resistance, which makes these medications less effective over time.
Fortunately, most of us will probably tolerate cephalexin very well. The most common side effect is diarrhea, followed by headache, nausea, and unusual vaginal discharge. In some cases, we might feel fatigued, confused, or agitated. If you have any of these symptoms for more than two days (or if they are particularly severe), reach out to your care team.
In rare cases, some people experience flu-like symptoms, including chills, stomach pain, dizziness, and fever. If you experience an allergic or severe skin reaction — characterized by itching, a rash, blisters, peeling of the skin, difficulty breathing, bloody stools, hallucinations, or swollen lymph nodes — seek emergency medical attention.
It is worth noting that those of us with diabetes may get false positive tests for sugar in our urine while taking this drug. We should talk to our doctor about this if it occurs; ideally, they’ll let us know what to expect before we fill the script.
Cephalexin won’t work for everyone. We should not take this drug if we have a penicillin allergy, which may make us more likely to experience adverse effects. We’ll also want to tell our healthcare provider about any medications, vitamins, and supplements we’re currently taking, as this drug tends to interact with metformin and probenecid.
When asking, “What can you not take with cephalexin?”, we want to remember that this drug can seriously interact with supplements. We should avoid taking any zinc while on this medication. Zinc interferes with the absorption of cephalexin, reducing its concentration in the bloodstream and rendering it less effective. Pro tip: Check your multivitamin for zinc or bring it to your doctor’s appointment before starting cephalexin.
If this antibiotic interacts with popular prescription drugs and over-the-counter vitamins, will drinking alcohol affect its efficacy?
Some cephalosporin antibiotics react strongly with alcohol. For example, mixing cefotetan or cefoperazone with a few after-work cocktails can result in gastrointestinal or cardiac distress. Symptoms include irregular heartbeat, blood pressure changes, severe nausea, and vomiting. However, this isn’t the case for all antibiotics. So, can you drink on cephalexin?
Technically, it’s safe to drink on cephalexin. We won’t experience the host of uncomfortable (or life-threatening) symptoms we might usually associate with antibiotics and alcohol. However, that doesn’t mean it’s a good idea to imbibe while taking this medication.
Cephalexin and alcohol interact in three key ways. If we drink on cephalexin, we may deal with worse side effects, a weakened immune system, and a longer recovery time. Here’s how it works:
So while it’s not necessarily dangerous to mix cephalexin and alcohol, it is certainly not beneficial.
If we want to avoid the interactions outlined above, we’ll probably want to abstain. Most of us will be on this medication for a maximum of 10 days, which isn’t long in the grand scheme of things. Consider framing this time as a break from hangovers while you focus on getting well. Plan to wait at least eight hours after your last dose of cephalexin to drink again.
While drinking doesn’t directly cause UTIs, heavy drinking creates a perfect environment where these nasty infections can thrive.
Alcohol is a diuretic, which means it increases our urinary frequency. The more we use the bathroom, the more likely we are to become dehydrated, especially if we’re under the influence. The resulting dehydration can worsen our UTI symptoms, weaken our immune system, and make it more difficult for our body to overcome an existing infection, even if we’re already taking medication. Sound familiar?
Furthermore, alcohol is pretty acidic. This makes it especially irritating for the delicate tissue lining the inside of our bladder (which is already going through a lot!). Even when we’re healthy, heavy alcohol exposure and its associated inflammation can lead to a form of bladder discomfort known as cystitis. Unfortunately, the symptoms of alcohol-induced cystitis and UTIs are almost indistinguishable, making future diagnosis difficult.
All this is to say: if we’re taking cephalexin for a UTI or any other infection, we may want to rethink those drinks.
We can still enjoy ourselves while bouncing back from bacterial infections. Below are a few boozeless beverages for those of us avoiding alcohol on cephalexin.
We hope these spirit-free sips bring you joy in the days ahead. Remember to check with a healthcare professional before altering your diet, especially if you’ve been prescribed a new medication.
If you’re struggling to take a break from drinking, you’re not alone. It can be difficult to stay substance-free for the days or weeks it takes to battle an infection. If you need help staying on track, consider seeking support from Reframe during your course of cephalexin.
Reframe is a habit-cessation app powered by neuroscience. Our team includes recovery experts, academics, psychologists, and more. The proof is in our data — we’ve helped millions of people change their drinking habits for the better. To learn more, visit the App Store or Google Play today.
Find out the potential risks associated with mixing medications like Percocet with alcohol and why it can be risky for your health.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
It seems as if new weight loss trends pop up every day. From diets like carnivore to keto, medications like Ozempic and now naltrexone, it's difficult to know what works and what is just the latest diet craze. Sure, a pill to help shed the pounds sounds great, but is it too good to be true? Most medications come with a paragraph of warnings, usually printed in the smallest font possible — obscuring the long list of side effects and risks. To make matters more complicated, weight loss doesn’t always mean better health. If we’re looking for a long-term solution to a healthier lifestyle, we need a clearer look at the whole picture.
Whether you’ve been prescribed naltrexone and are wondering why the number on the scale is going down, or you’re looking for a medication to aid in weight loss, understanding the science behind how naltrexone works can provide some answers. So, let’s investigate what naltrexone is, how it works, and who stands to benefit most from using it.
Naltrexone is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and used to treat alcohol use disorder (AUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD). It’s a highly controlled substance that requires a prescription and, often, administration by a licensed practitioner. It’s used in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) as just one component of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Naltrexone comes in a pill and extended-release intramuscular injection form. Both forms are used to supplement a combination of behavioral therapies and counseling for a holistic approach to treating substance use disorders.
These are two common implementations of naltrexone aside from treating substance misuse:
Naltrexone is used to treat opioid misuse, alcohol misuse, inflammatory conditions, obesity … this pharmaceutical multitool has quite the skillset. So just how does it do all this?
Naltrexone is classified as an opioid antagonist or opioid blocker. As the name suggests, drugs like naltrexone prevent substances from binding to opioid receptors, effectively blocking the pleasure response from substance use.
Since naltrexone blocks a substance's ability to give us those familiar positive feelings, we quickly become less psychologically dependent on it — we crave it less, and it doesn’t seem quite so appealing. Ever had a moment when you opened a bag of chips and couldn’t stop until the bag was empty? Now imagine if you suddenly lost your sense of taste while eating the bag of chips. Sure, you’d probably freak out because you’d lost your sense of taste, but most of us would also stop eating the chips since taste is the reward that keeps us going back for more.
The physiological effects of drinking stem from dopamine release and activation of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis. Research shows that naltrexone diminishes dopamine release and HPA activation, adding to its effectiveness as a treatment for substance dependence. Naltrexone works as a medication to decrease alcohol opioid misuse, but let’s take a look at why it’s also tied to weight loss.
Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors, which reduces intoxication effects, but its impact on our reward system also causes secondary effects that can influence our weight. The opioid system regulates our mood, hunger, pain, and reward system. Naltrexone's damper on the opioid system can lead to a number of side effects.
In contrast to naltrexone, alcohol is linked to weight gain. Here are four main ways that alcohol causes weight gain:
It is important to make the distinction between the different ways that naltrexone is used for weight loss. Understanding the intention for the use of naltrexone helps us examine its practicality as a weight loss solution. We can define the different intentions this way:
Now that we have a better understanding of how naltrexone and weight loss are connected, let’s take a look at the versatility of naltrexone to see how it can treat various conditions.
Naltrexone is an approved treatment for alcohol use disorder but is being explored for other treatments, which brings up the question of drinking while taking naltrexone.
The opioid-blocking effects of naltrexone inhibit the feelings of intoxication but do not prevent the other impacts of alcohol. While drinking on naltrexone, we continue to experience impairments such as delayed response time, lack of motor coordination, and impaired thinking. It’s important to note that driving and participating in other activities that require full coordination and function should not be attempted.
While used to reduce alcohol dependence, starting naltrexone does not require full abstinence from alcohol. The Sinclair Method actually uses naltrexone in conjunction with drinking to slowly reduce the desire for alcohol consumption. Naltrexone should always be used as part of a treatment program that involves behavioral treatment and therapies in order to help reduce dependence. Individual needs will vary, and it’s important to discuss personal circumstances with our own practitioner and treatment team.
Before taking a look at some of the common side effects of naltrexone, it’s important to note that naltrexone should not be taken with any opioids (including opioid-containing medication). Before starting naltrexone, a detox period of up to two weeks may be needed to help prevent overdose or withdrawal symptoms. Used as prescribed, naltrexone is relatively safe but may cause side effects such as:
More serious side effects include depression, allergic reactions, and pneumonia.
Contrave, the FDA-approved medication for obesity, also contains bupropion, adding to the list of naltrexone side effects for weight loss. Common side effects of bupropion are:
Bupropion is an antidepressant and requires warnings for depression, mood changes, and increased risk for suicidal thoughts. If we are susceptible to mood changes, we should stay in regular contact with our prescribing physician and check in regularly with the professionals helping guide our treatment regimen.
Now that we're aware of the potential risks of using naltrexone for weight loss, let’s take a look at who may benefit from it.
If used as a medication for weight loss, specific criteria should be met prior to taking naltrexone. Naltrexone should be used only as a last resort because it comes with more risks than many other methods of weight loss. If excess weight is causing medical concerns and we haven’t been able to lose weight through traditional methods, we could benefit from using naltrexone.
Those of us who are prescribed naltrexone for other purposes should not make weight loss an intention or priority. It can be beneficial to implement healthy habits that, coupled with naltrexone’s weight-reducing effects, can lead to an overall healthier lifestyle. While naltrexone can be instrumental in weight loss, it's not appropriate for everyone to use.
Naltrexone is effective for a number of different conditions but can cause adverse effects when not used appropriately. It should not be used by anyone who is ...
Now that we’ve analyzed who should and shouldn’t use naltrexone, let’s explore some actions we can all take to better our overall health.
Health and wellness can be subjective, but implementing healthy habits can improve our physical and mental well-being. These are some ways we can positively influence our health:
Naltrexone seems to be a jack of all trades. It’s an effective treatment for alcohol and opioid use disorder and can contribute to weight loss, whether primary or after-effect. As with any drug, there is a long list of potential risks. Using naltrexone for weight loss requires thorough consideration and should be used only after other alternatives have been explored. Body weight is but a small fragment of our overall health. We can manipulate plenty of other aspects of our well-being to live a happy and healthy life. Like the great Roman poet Virgil said, “The greatest wealth is health”.
It seems as if new weight loss trends pop up every day. From diets like carnivore to keto, medications like Ozempic and now naltrexone, it's difficult to know what works and what is just the latest diet craze. Sure, a pill to help shed the pounds sounds great, but is it too good to be true? Most medications come with a paragraph of warnings, usually printed in the smallest font possible — obscuring the long list of side effects and risks. To make matters more complicated, weight loss doesn’t always mean better health. If we’re looking for a long-term solution to a healthier lifestyle, we need a clearer look at the whole picture.
Whether you’ve been prescribed naltrexone and are wondering why the number on the scale is going down, or you’re looking for a medication to aid in weight loss, understanding the science behind how naltrexone works can provide some answers. So, let’s investigate what naltrexone is, how it works, and who stands to benefit most from using it.
Naltrexone is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and used to treat alcohol use disorder (AUD) and opioid use disorder (OUD). It’s a highly controlled substance that requires a prescription and, often, administration by a licensed practitioner. It’s used in medication-assisted treatment (MAT) as just one component of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Naltrexone comes in a pill and extended-release intramuscular injection form. Both forms are used to supplement a combination of behavioral therapies and counseling for a holistic approach to treating substance use disorders.
These are two common implementations of naltrexone aside from treating substance misuse:
Naltrexone is used to treat opioid misuse, alcohol misuse, inflammatory conditions, obesity … this pharmaceutical multitool has quite the skillset. So just how does it do all this?
Naltrexone is classified as an opioid antagonist or opioid blocker. As the name suggests, drugs like naltrexone prevent substances from binding to opioid receptors, effectively blocking the pleasure response from substance use.
Since naltrexone blocks a substance's ability to give us those familiar positive feelings, we quickly become less psychologically dependent on it — we crave it less, and it doesn’t seem quite so appealing. Ever had a moment when you opened a bag of chips and couldn’t stop until the bag was empty? Now imagine if you suddenly lost your sense of taste while eating the bag of chips. Sure, you’d probably freak out because you’d lost your sense of taste, but most of us would also stop eating the chips since taste is the reward that keeps us going back for more.
The physiological effects of drinking stem from dopamine release and activation of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis. Research shows that naltrexone diminishes dopamine release and HPA activation, adding to its effectiveness as a treatment for substance dependence. Naltrexone works as a medication to decrease alcohol opioid misuse, but let’s take a look at why it’s also tied to weight loss.
Naltrexone blocks opioid receptors, which reduces intoxication effects, but its impact on our reward system also causes secondary effects that can influence our weight. The opioid system regulates our mood, hunger, pain, and reward system. Naltrexone's damper on the opioid system can lead to a number of side effects.
In contrast to naltrexone, alcohol is linked to weight gain. Here are four main ways that alcohol causes weight gain:
It is important to make the distinction between the different ways that naltrexone is used for weight loss. Understanding the intention for the use of naltrexone helps us examine its practicality as a weight loss solution. We can define the different intentions this way:
Now that we have a better understanding of how naltrexone and weight loss are connected, let’s take a look at the versatility of naltrexone to see how it can treat various conditions.
Naltrexone is an approved treatment for alcohol use disorder but is being explored for other treatments, which brings up the question of drinking while taking naltrexone.
The opioid-blocking effects of naltrexone inhibit the feelings of intoxication but do not prevent the other impacts of alcohol. While drinking on naltrexone, we continue to experience impairments such as delayed response time, lack of motor coordination, and impaired thinking. It’s important to note that driving and participating in other activities that require full coordination and function should not be attempted.
While used to reduce alcohol dependence, starting naltrexone does not require full abstinence from alcohol. The Sinclair Method actually uses naltrexone in conjunction with drinking to slowly reduce the desire for alcohol consumption. Naltrexone should always be used as part of a treatment program that involves behavioral treatment and therapies in order to help reduce dependence. Individual needs will vary, and it’s important to discuss personal circumstances with our own practitioner and treatment team.
Before taking a look at some of the common side effects of naltrexone, it’s important to note that naltrexone should not be taken with any opioids (including opioid-containing medication). Before starting naltrexone, a detox period of up to two weeks may be needed to help prevent overdose or withdrawal symptoms. Used as prescribed, naltrexone is relatively safe but may cause side effects such as:
More serious side effects include depression, allergic reactions, and pneumonia.
Contrave, the FDA-approved medication for obesity, also contains bupropion, adding to the list of naltrexone side effects for weight loss. Common side effects of bupropion are:
Bupropion is an antidepressant and requires warnings for depression, mood changes, and increased risk for suicidal thoughts. If we are susceptible to mood changes, we should stay in regular contact with our prescribing physician and check in regularly with the professionals helping guide our treatment regimen.
Now that we're aware of the potential risks of using naltrexone for weight loss, let’s take a look at who may benefit from it.
If used as a medication for weight loss, specific criteria should be met prior to taking naltrexone. Naltrexone should be used only as a last resort because it comes with more risks than many other methods of weight loss. If excess weight is causing medical concerns and we haven’t been able to lose weight through traditional methods, we could benefit from using naltrexone.
Those of us who are prescribed naltrexone for other purposes should not make weight loss an intention or priority. It can be beneficial to implement healthy habits that, coupled with naltrexone’s weight-reducing effects, can lead to an overall healthier lifestyle. While naltrexone can be instrumental in weight loss, it's not appropriate for everyone to use.
Naltrexone is effective for a number of different conditions but can cause adverse effects when not used appropriately. It should not be used by anyone who is ...
Now that we’ve analyzed who should and shouldn’t use naltrexone, let’s explore some actions we can all take to better our overall health.
Health and wellness can be subjective, but implementing healthy habits can improve our physical and mental well-being. These are some ways we can positively influence our health:
Naltrexone seems to be a jack of all trades. It’s an effective treatment for alcohol and opioid use disorder and can contribute to weight loss, whether primary or after-effect. As with any drug, there is a long list of potential risks. Using naltrexone for weight loss requires thorough consideration and should be used only after other alternatives have been explored. Body weight is but a small fragment of our overall health. We can manipulate plenty of other aspects of our well-being to live a happy and healthy life. Like the great Roman poet Virgil said, “The greatest wealth is health”.
Find out the potential risks associated with mixing medications like Percocet with alcohol and why it can be risky for your health.
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
You recently had a medical procedure, and you were prescribed Percocet for pain management. You’ve been feeling better, and you’ve decided you’re well enough to attend the party you were invited to this weekend. But you’re still taking your Percocet: is it safe to have a few drinks? Let’s explore the science behind how this pain reliever works and what happens when alcohol enters the picture.
Percocet is a commonly prescribed medication used for managing moderate to severe pain. It contains a combination of oxycodone (an opioid pain reliever) and acetaminophen (known as Tylenol).
Oxycodone is a powerful opioid and is the primary pain-relieving ingredient in Percocet. Opioids block pain receptors in the brain so pain signals have a harder time getting through. Acetaminophen is a common, nonopioid, over-the-counter pain reliever, and it’s not nearly as strong as oxycodone. It does, however, enhance and complement oxycodone.
Like all opioid-containing narcotic medications, Percocet is only available with a prescription. It is typically used in the short term to treat cancer-related and post-surgical pain. Percocet is also used sometimes to treat long-term, chronic pain conditions.
Percocet can be effective in relieving pain, but like many medications there are interactions to be aware of. As with any medication, it’s always important to read the warning labels and discuss any questions with our pharmacist or healthcare provider before we start taking it.
When we read the label on our Percocet bottle, we may notice a big warning saying not to take it with alcohol. But how serious is this warning? Here are a few side effects of mixing Percocet and alcohol.
It must be said again: always educate yourself on the potential risks associated with any medication you’re taking by speaking with your doctor and pharmacist. Here are some top tips for staying safe while taking medications like Percocet.
Although we’ve provided a background and some helpful advice, this article is by no means exhaustive. There are hundreds of prescription and over-the-counter medications out there. Research shows that more than 100 drugs interact with wine, beer, and hard liquor, which can trigger problems ranging from nausea and headaches to life-threatening issues. As we stated above, mixing alcohol with medications is always risky, but it’s particularly harmful in the case of Percocet. Stay educated, stay empowered, and stay safe!
You recently had a medical procedure, and you were prescribed Percocet for pain management. You’ve been feeling better, and you’ve decided you’re well enough to attend the party you were invited to this weekend. But you’re still taking your Percocet: is it safe to have a few drinks? Let’s explore the science behind how this pain reliever works and what happens when alcohol enters the picture.
Percocet is a commonly prescribed medication used for managing moderate to severe pain. It contains a combination of oxycodone (an opioid pain reliever) and acetaminophen (known as Tylenol).
Oxycodone is a powerful opioid and is the primary pain-relieving ingredient in Percocet. Opioids block pain receptors in the brain so pain signals have a harder time getting through. Acetaminophen is a common, nonopioid, over-the-counter pain reliever, and it’s not nearly as strong as oxycodone. It does, however, enhance and complement oxycodone.
Like all opioid-containing narcotic medications, Percocet is only available with a prescription. It is typically used in the short term to treat cancer-related and post-surgical pain. Percocet is also used sometimes to treat long-term, chronic pain conditions.
Percocet can be effective in relieving pain, but like many medications there are interactions to be aware of. As with any medication, it’s always important to read the warning labels and discuss any questions with our pharmacist or healthcare provider before we start taking it.
When we read the label on our Percocet bottle, we may notice a big warning saying not to take it with alcohol. But how serious is this warning? Here are a few side effects of mixing Percocet and alcohol.
It must be said again: always educate yourself on the potential risks associated with any medication you’re taking by speaking with your doctor and pharmacist. Here are some top tips for staying safe while taking medications like Percocet.
Although we’ve provided a background and some helpful advice, this article is by no means exhaustive. There are hundreds of prescription and over-the-counter medications out there. Research shows that more than 100 drugs interact with wine, beer, and hard liquor, which can trigger problems ranging from nausea and headaches to life-threatening issues. As we stated above, mixing alcohol with medications is always risky, but it’s particularly harmful in the case of Percocet. Stay educated, stay empowered, and stay safe!
Explore the interactions between Wellbutrin (bupropion) and alcohol, and the science behind whether or not you can drink while taking Wellbutrin.
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Bupropion is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in the United States. It goes by a few different names based on how it is used. When used as an antidepressant, it’s sold under the name Wellbutrin; when used as a smoking cessation aid, it is sold under the name Zyban.
Bupropion and alcohol interact with our brain chemistry in different ways. Bupropion’s effects are intentionally used to correct a chemical imbalance. Alcohol intentionally creates a chemical imbalance to produce intoxicating effects.
So what happens when you mix bupropion with alcohol? Do these two play nice, or are they a bad mix? In this article, we’ll take a look at the science and find out what exactly happens when you mix Wellbutrin with alcohol, and whether there are any bupropion-alcohol interactions to be aware of. Let’s dive in!
Bupropion is most commonly used to treat depression. Sometimes it’s prescribed on its own, sometimes it’s used when typical antidepressants don’t work, and sometimes it’s used in addition to a typical antidepressant.
It’s considered an atypical antidepressant because it doesn’t work like most antidepressant medications. The first choice for medical treatment of depression is a type of drug called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These medications prevent our brains from tossing out serotonin molecules. Serotonin helps us regulate our mood, and a lack of serotonin can cause clinical depression.
But not all depression is caused by low serotonin. This is where bupropion comes in. Bupropion is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) — it does the same thing for dopamine and norepinephrine as SSRIs do for serotonin. Norepinephrine is a stimulating neurotransmitter (brain chemical) responsible for alertness, attention, memory, and the fight-or-flight response. Dopamine is involved in motivation, planning, and the rewards system.
When depression doesn’t improve with typical antidepressants, Wellbutrin is often the first alternative choice. The stimulating effects of increased norepinephrine and dopamine make it especially useful for treating the fatigue associated with depression and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Bupropion is also frequently prescribed when we experience depression in addition to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Since ADHD involves a dysfunction of dopamine, bupropion’s dopamine-boosting properties give the brain more dopamine to work with. Bupropion works very mildly on dopamine, making it an easier treatment to tolerate than traditional stimulants, and its balanced properties make it an unlikely candidate for misuse.
Bupropion goes by the brand name Wellbutrin when used to treat depression. Since bupropion also inhibits nicotine receptors in the brain, it is also used under the brand name Zyban as an aid for quitting smoking cigarettes. Wellbutrin and Zyban are the same thing: they’re both bupropion, just in different doses.
In this article, we will focus on Wellbutrin; Zyban is typically only prescribed for a short period of time at a low dose (150 mg), whereas Wellbutrin is taken over longer periods at a higher dose (300 - 450 mg).
Bupropion has some common side effects:
Bupropion also lowers the seizure threshold, the minimum stimulation necessary to cause a seizure. Because of this, it is not usually prescribed to people with other conditions that lower their seizure threshold, like epilepsy, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and alcohol use disorder (AUD), since alcohol withdrawal is associated with an increased risk of seizure.
Much like Wellbutrin, alcohol is a drug that changes our brain chemistry. When we drink alcohol, our brain floods with dopamine and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a calming neurotransmitter, and reduces the effectiveness of glutamate, a stimulating neurotransmitter. This chemical cocktail makes us feel calm, warm, fuzzy, and inspired to keep drinking.
In the short term, this causes the feeling we recognize as “tipsy” or “drunk.” When we drink consistently, our brains get used to alcohol’s effects and adjust our baseline brain chemistry in anticipation of that next drink. Among other things, this includes lowering dopamine production, leading to a generally lower mood and cravings for dopamine-boosting activities (like drinking).
Combining Wellbutrin and alcohol can present serious risks in chemical interactions and side effect amplification. Let’s take a closer look at both of these categories.
Studies show that increased norepinephrine in the brain increases the effect of alcohol on our rewards system.
Imagine your brain as the center of a busy city, bustling with traffic. Wellbutrin and alcohol are like two very different kinds of drivers making their way along the roads. Wellbutrin is a responsible driver — it follows traffic signals, lets people in, stops for pedestrians, and uses its turn signal. As a result, traffic around Wellbutrin flows smoothly.
Alcohol, on the other hand, is a reckless driver who disrupts the normal flow of traffic. It speeds and swerves, and other drivers start getting cautious. This causes traffic to slow down and clog up the roads. When both Wellbutrin and alcohol are in your brain's city streets at the same time, they do opposite things and interfere with each other.
But they don’t just cancel each other out — just like a good driver doesn’t cancel out a bad driver. Wellbutrin is trying to keep things moving, but alcohol is slowing things down. This can lead to mixed signals, making you feel different than you would with just Wellbutrin or just alcohol alone.
Alcohol and Wellbutrin affect different brain chemicals, but there is some overlap. In the places where their effects overlap, the side effects of each substance compound. In other areas, the side effects can unpredictably seesaw from one extreme to the other. Let’s look at what happens when you drink alcohol while taking Wellbutrin.
From the list of Wellbutrin-alcohol interactions above, it’s clear that these two substances do not play well together. They interact with each other on multiple levels and can create unpredictable effects.
More fundamentally, we have to ask ourselves why we use each of these substances. Wellbutrin is prescribed to improve our mental health and the physical manifestations of depression. Alcohol is used for many complex reasons, but the end result is that it tends to worsen our mental health. We are taking Wellbutrin as part of a wellness journey, and quitting back or cutting back on alcohol gives Wellbutrin the best chance of doing its job.
Let’s look at some things to keep in mind when we are considering drinking while taking Wellbutrin.
If you’re sufficiently convinced that mixing Wellbutrin and alcohol is a bad idea, you may find yourself considering skipping a day of Wellbutrin to drink — this is a bad idea! Alcohol can still interact with Wellbutrin in your system for up to a week after you stop taking it, and it takes even longer for brain chemistry to normalize after stopping Wellbutrin. Skipping doses and drinking heavily are individually associated with increased risk of seizure. The risk compounds when we do both simultaneously.
Most importantly, skipping doses of Wellbutrin reduces its effectiveness. When paired with alcohol’s depressive effects, skipping doses of Wellbutrin to drink creates a negative feedback loop. It’s important to remember why we are taking Wellbutrin in the first place and prioritize our wellness.
Bupropion is one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in the United States. It goes by a few different names based on how it is used. When used as an antidepressant, it’s sold under the name Wellbutrin; when used as a smoking cessation aid, it is sold under the name Zyban.
Bupropion and alcohol interact with our brain chemistry in different ways. Bupropion’s effects are intentionally used to correct a chemical imbalance. Alcohol intentionally creates a chemical imbalance to produce intoxicating effects.
So what happens when you mix bupropion with alcohol? Do these two play nice, or are they a bad mix? In this article, we’ll take a look at the science and find out what exactly happens when you mix Wellbutrin with alcohol, and whether there are any bupropion-alcohol interactions to be aware of. Let’s dive in!
Bupropion is most commonly used to treat depression. Sometimes it’s prescribed on its own, sometimes it’s used when typical antidepressants don’t work, and sometimes it’s used in addition to a typical antidepressant.
It’s considered an atypical antidepressant because it doesn’t work like most antidepressant medications. The first choice for medical treatment of depression is a type of drug called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These medications prevent our brains from tossing out serotonin molecules. Serotonin helps us regulate our mood, and a lack of serotonin can cause clinical depression.
But not all depression is caused by low serotonin. This is where bupropion comes in. Bupropion is a norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor (NDRI) — it does the same thing for dopamine and norepinephrine as SSRIs do for serotonin. Norepinephrine is a stimulating neurotransmitter (brain chemical) responsible for alertness, attention, memory, and the fight-or-flight response. Dopamine is involved in motivation, planning, and the rewards system.
When depression doesn’t improve with typical antidepressants, Wellbutrin is often the first alternative choice. The stimulating effects of increased norepinephrine and dopamine make it especially useful for treating the fatigue associated with depression and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).
Bupropion is also frequently prescribed when we experience depression in addition to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Since ADHD involves a dysfunction of dopamine, bupropion’s dopamine-boosting properties give the brain more dopamine to work with. Bupropion works very mildly on dopamine, making it an easier treatment to tolerate than traditional stimulants, and its balanced properties make it an unlikely candidate for misuse.
Bupropion goes by the brand name Wellbutrin when used to treat depression. Since bupropion also inhibits nicotine receptors in the brain, it is also used under the brand name Zyban as an aid for quitting smoking cigarettes. Wellbutrin and Zyban are the same thing: they’re both bupropion, just in different doses.
In this article, we will focus on Wellbutrin; Zyban is typically only prescribed for a short period of time at a low dose (150 mg), whereas Wellbutrin is taken over longer periods at a higher dose (300 - 450 mg).
Bupropion has some common side effects:
Bupropion also lowers the seizure threshold, the minimum stimulation necessary to cause a seizure. Because of this, it is not usually prescribed to people with other conditions that lower their seizure threshold, like epilepsy, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and alcohol use disorder (AUD), since alcohol withdrawal is associated with an increased risk of seizure.
Much like Wellbutrin, alcohol is a drug that changes our brain chemistry. When we drink alcohol, our brain floods with dopamine and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a calming neurotransmitter, and reduces the effectiveness of glutamate, a stimulating neurotransmitter. This chemical cocktail makes us feel calm, warm, fuzzy, and inspired to keep drinking.
In the short term, this causes the feeling we recognize as “tipsy” or “drunk.” When we drink consistently, our brains get used to alcohol’s effects and adjust our baseline brain chemistry in anticipation of that next drink. Among other things, this includes lowering dopamine production, leading to a generally lower mood and cravings for dopamine-boosting activities (like drinking).
Combining Wellbutrin and alcohol can present serious risks in chemical interactions and side effect amplification. Let’s take a closer look at both of these categories.
Studies show that increased norepinephrine in the brain increases the effect of alcohol on our rewards system.
Imagine your brain as the center of a busy city, bustling with traffic. Wellbutrin and alcohol are like two very different kinds of drivers making their way along the roads. Wellbutrin is a responsible driver — it follows traffic signals, lets people in, stops for pedestrians, and uses its turn signal. As a result, traffic around Wellbutrin flows smoothly.
Alcohol, on the other hand, is a reckless driver who disrupts the normal flow of traffic. It speeds and swerves, and other drivers start getting cautious. This causes traffic to slow down and clog up the roads. When both Wellbutrin and alcohol are in your brain's city streets at the same time, they do opposite things and interfere with each other.
But they don’t just cancel each other out — just like a good driver doesn’t cancel out a bad driver. Wellbutrin is trying to keep things moving, but alcohol is slowing things down. This can lead to mixed signals, making you feel different than you would with just Wellbutrin or just alcohol alone.
Alcohol and Wellbutrin affect different brain chemicals, but there is some overlap. In the places where their effects overlap, the side effects of each substance compound. In other areas, the side effects can unpredictably seesaw from one extreme to the other. Let’s look at what happens when you drink alcohol while taking Wellbutrin.
From the list of Wellbutrin-alcohol interactions above, it’s clear that these two substances do not play well together. They interact with each other on multiple levels and can create unpredictable effects.
More fundamentally, we have to ask ourselves why we use each of these substances. Wellbutrin is prescribed to improve our mental health and the physical manifestations of depression. Alcohol is used for many complex reasons, but the end result is that it tends to worsen our mental health. We are taking Wellbutrin as part of a wellness journey, and quitting back or cutting back on alcohol gives Wellbutrin the best chance of doing its job.
Let’s look at some things to keep in mind when we are considering drinking while taking Wellbutrin.
If you’re sufficiently convinced that mixing Wellbutrin and alcohol is a bad idea, you may find yourself considering skipping a day of Wellbutrin to drink — this is a bad idea! Alcohol can still interact with Wellbutrin in your system for up to a week after you stop taking it, and it takes even longer for brain chemistry to normalize after stopping Wellbutrin. Skipping doses and drinking heavily are individually associated with increased risk of seizure. The risk compounds when we do both simultaneously.
Most importantly, skipping doses of Wellbutrin reduces its effectiveness. When paired with alcohol’s depressive effects, skipping doses of Wellbutrin to drink creates a negative feedback loop. It’s important to remember why we are taking Wellbutrin in the first place and prioritize our wellness.
