Effects of Alcohol While on Antibiotics

Alcohol should not be mixed with any medications in general, but some medications are more affected than others. When in doubt, check with your medical doctor or health practitioner before taking any medication and drinking alcohol.

Recovery Time

Alcohol is a depressant and will sap your energy. It affects your entire body, so it's best to wait until you're finished the antibiotic before drinking alcohol. Otherwise, your recovery may take longer.

Affected Antibiotics

According to mayoclinic.com, the following antibiotics should not be taken with alcohol, as a severe reaction can occur: metronidazole (Flagyl), trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (Bactrim) and tinidazole (Tindamax). Reactions such as rapid heart rate, dizziness, nausea and rapid heart rate may happen if any of these antibiotics are mixed with alcohol (see Resources).

Other Sources

Some cold medicines contain alcohol, and mouthwashes and similar products often contain alcohol as well. Be sure to check the labels of all antibiotics, cold medicines and oral care products before using.

Reducing Strength

Sometimes alcohol won't make you sick, but it may reduce the strength of an antibiotic, like doxycycline (Vibramycin, Doryx), according to mayoclinic.com (see Resources). This means your dosage may not work properly if mixed with alcohol.

Similar Side Effects

Alcohol and antibiotics can have similar effects on your stomach, thereby packing a double punch if taken together. Dizziness, nausea and fatigue are among the side effects that can occur with both alcohol consumption and antibiotics, so it's best not to mix them at all.

Resources

• Mayoclinic.com: Alcohol and Antibiotics
• Alcohol and Antibiotics: Truth and Myths