Question: Can I drink alcohol when I am taking antibiotics? What impact will that have?
Answer by Carolyn Clementson, Professional Services Pharmacist at the Good Price Pharmacy Warehouse
This is a commonly asked question! Drinking alcohol in moderation is unlikely to be a problem with most antibiotics.
Of course, if you are unwell, it’s a good idea to limit alcohol intake until you feel better.
There are, however, a few antibiotics where alcohol should definitely be avoided. Alcohol should not be consumed whilst taking metronidazole or tinidazole as these medicines reduce the body’s ability to metabolise and clear alcohol.
To reduce the likelihood of suffering adverse reactions such as nausea, vomiting, skin flushing, headache or irregular heartbeat, drinking alcohol should be avoided whilst taking these medicines and for 24 hours after ceasing metronidazole and 72 hours after ceasing tinidazole.
When having prescriptions filled for antibiotics, it is always a good idea to ask your pharmacist about how to take the medicine safely and effectively.
- Carolyn is a member of the My BT Gold Coast Advice Army, on hand to give you expertise in specialised fields from a local perspective. Do you have a question for Carolyn? Email goldcoast@brisbanetimes.com.au and we’ll pass it on.
