Which medications should not be taken with alcohol?

Generally, it is not advisable to take medications such as cefdinir dispersible tablets, cefradine capsules, metronidazole tablets, enteric-coated aspirin tablets, and irbesartan tablets when consuming alcohol. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Cefdinir Dispersible Tablets

Cefdinir dispersible tablets are an oral third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic. Taking cefdinir after drinking alcohol may trigger a disulfiram-like reaction, which could lead to anaphylactic shock and serious consequences.

2. Cefradine Capsules

Cefradine capsules are a first-generation cephalosporin antibiotic available in oral capsule form. When alcohol interacts with cephalosporins in the body, it interferes with alcohol metabolism, causing excessive accumulation of acetaldehyde—an intermediate metabolite of alcohol—that cannot be effectively eliminated, potentially resulting in alcohol poisoning.

3. Metronidazole Tablets

Metronidazole tablets belong to the imidazole class of antibiotics and are commonly used clinically to treat infections caused by anaerobic bacteria. The molecular structure of metronidazole contains a tetrazole ring that inhibits aldehyde dehydrogenase, thereby blocking the metabolism of ethanol from alcohol. This leads to excessive accumulation of acetaldehyde in the body, causing symptoms such as facial flushing, conjunctival congestion, and headache. In severe cases, it may result in respiratory distress and even life-threatening complications.

4. Enteric-Coated Aspirin Tablets

Enteric-coated aspirin tablets are antiplatelet agents primarily used for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Consuming alcohol while taking enteric-coated aspirin can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, potentially worsening discomfort after drinking and increasing the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.

5. Irbesartan Tablets

Irbesartan tablets are antihypertensive drugs mainly used to treat hypertension. Drinking alcohol while taking irbesartan may cause increased heart rate. Even small amounts of alcohol might elevate blood pressure, while heavy drinking could lead to hypotension.

In addition, other medications such as metformin hydrochloride tablets, amoxicillin capsules, and penicillin V potassium tablets should also be avoided when drinking alcohol. If patients experience any adverse symptoms, they should follow medical advice regarding medication use and seek prompt medical attention at a hospital to avoid delays in treatment.