Expert: Barbara Judge - 11/5/2009

Question
Does alcohol reduce the effects of the antibiotic?

Answer
    In general alcohol does not reduce the effectiveness of antibiotics.  There are some antibiotics that do not react well with alcohol, such as metronidazole.  If metronidazole is taken with alcohol you will have severe nausea, vomiting, hot flashes, palpitations and other reactions.  There are other antibiotics that have the potential for liver damage which should not be taken with alcohol also.  

    Some infections will grow more rapidly in a high "sugar" medium.  Alcohol can supply this sugar.  Depending on the infection you have and depending on the specific antibiotic you are taking you should ask your doctor if he/she thinks alcohol consumption would be harmful while taking the antibiotic you are prescribed.

Thanks

Barb Judge