Medicines

Some medicines must never be combined with alcohol.

When your doctor prescribes a medicine, ask about how it interacts with alcohol and read the patient information leaflet carefully.

Your pharmacist will also be able to help explain whether you can drink alcohol while taking the medication.

Medication + Alcohol = Danger

Alcohol may alter the effects of a medicinal product.

• Some medications slow the rate at which your body processes alcohol. This means that toxic residues will remain in your system for longer.
• Conversely, alcohol can slow the rate at which your body absorbs some medications, meaning they stay in your body for longer. This could result in an overdose or significant side effects.
• Alcohol can also intensify the action of some medications such as psychotropic drugs (sedatives, sleeping tablets, antidepressants etc.).