Typical over-the-counter (OTC) medications seen as relatively harmless on their own become potentially dangerous when ingested with alcohol or when alcohol is already in your system.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are one such case. NSAIDs are OTC pain relievers that treat pain, inflammation, and fever. Some of the most common include ibuprofen, diclofenac, ketoprofen, meloxicam, and naproxen. While they can be safe in moderation, they can also lead to unexpected side effects combined with alcohol.
Let’s explore how NSAIDs and alcohol interact and who’s more at risk of experiencing side effects.
What Are the Dangers of Mixing Alcohol and NSAIDs?
Mixing alcohol with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be dangerous for several reasons. Here are some of the potential risks and concerns:
- Gastrointestinal (GI) Bleeding: Both alcohol and NSAIDs can irritate the stomach lining. When taken together, the risk of developing ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding increases. Consuming up to 1 drink per day increases the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding associated with NSAID use by about 37%. This can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.
- Liver Damage: Some NSAIDs (sulindac and diclofenac), when taken in large doses or over a prolonged period, can adversely affect the liver. Combining NSAIDs with alcohol, which is also metabolized by the liver, can amplify this risk. This combination can lead to liver inflammation, liver disease, or even liver failure in severe cases.
- Kidney Damage: Ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, and ketoprofen can reduce blood flow to the kidneys, leading to kidney damage over time. Alcohol can also have harmful effects on kidney function. When combined, the risk of kidney problems may increase.
- Increased Blood Pressure: NSAIDs can lead to increased blood pressure. Alcohol can also have this effect, especially when consumed in large quantities. Combining the two can exacerbate hypertension, leading to other cardiovascular problems.
- Exacerbate Medication Effects: Alcohol can intensify the sedative effects of many medications, leading to drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination. This can be dangerous, especially if driving or operating heavy machinery.
- Risk of Overdose: If someone consumes alcohol to the point of impaired judgment, they might inadvertently take more NSAIDs than recommended, leading to an overdose. NSAID overdose can lead to nausea and vomiting, dizziness or vertigo, slowed or shallow breathing, confusion, or altered mental status. In severe cases, cardiovascular collapse, seizures, or coma can occur.
Other Dangers of Mixing Alcohol and NSAIDs
In addition to the dangers mentioned previously, here are some other risks associated with combining alcohol and NSAIDs:
- Prolonged Bleeding Time: Both alcohol and NSAIDs can interfere with platelet function, leading to prolonged bleeding time. This can be especially concerning if someone has a bleeding disorder or is on other medications that affect blood clotting.
- Exacerbation of Health Conditions: People with certain health conditions, such as liver disease, kidney disease, or peptic ulcer disease, can experience exacerbated symptoms when combining alcohol and NSAIDs.
- Masking of Symptoms: Alcohol can sometimes mask the symptoms of an adverse reaction or overdose of NSAIDs, leading to a delay in seeking medical attention.
- Impaired Judgment: Alcohol can impair judgment, which might lead someone to take more NSAIDs than recommended, increasing the risk of overdose or adverse reactions.
Who is More At Risk?
Certain individuals may be at a higher risk of experiencing adverse effects when mixing alcohol and NSAIDs:
- Elderly Individuals: As people age, their body’s ability to metabolize drugs and alcohol can decrease.
- Individuals with Chronic Medical Conditions: People with liver disease, kidney disease, heart disease, hypertension, or gastrointestinal disorders are at a higher risk of complications.
- Individuals Taking Multiple Medications: Those on multiple medications, especially anticoagulants, antiplatelet agents, other pain relievers, or medications for blood pressure, may experience drug interactions when adding NSAIDs and alcohol.
- Heavy or Chronic Drinkers: Those who consume alcohol regularly or in large quantities are at a higher risk of liver and gastrointestinal complications when adding NSAIDs.
- Individuals with a History of Peptic Ulcer Disease or GI Bleeding: These individuals are at a higher risk of developing ulcers or GI bleeding when combining NSAIDs and alcohol.
FAQs
Can you drink alcohol while taking NSAIDs?
Those who drink heavily are at a higher risk of experiencing gastrointestinal issues when using NSAIDs concurrently with alcohol or shortly after. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) defines heavy drinking as more than three drinks daily for women and more than four for men.
Can I drink alcohol and ibuprofen?
It’s important to note that mixing any pain medication with alcohol carries inherent risks. Ideally, one should avoid consuming ibuprofen and alcohol simultaneously.
How long after taking NSAIDs can I drink alcohol?
For safety, it’s recommended to wait between 10 to 17 hours after your last dose of NSAIDs before consuming alcohol.
