Is it okay to drink alcohol while taking roxithromycin?
Nov 06, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, you should not take roxithromycin immediately after drinking alcohol. Alcohol consumption is prohibited during treatment and for 7 days after discontinuation of the medication. You should also avoid consuming foods or beverages containing alcohol. If you accidentally take the medication after drinking, monitor your physical condition closely. Should any of the aforementioned adverse reactions occur, seek medical attention immediately. Roxithromycin must be taken strictly according to medical instructions.
Generally, you should not take roxithromycin immediately after drinking alcohol. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Taking roxithromycin right after drinking can trigger a disulfiram-like reaction. When alcohol is metabolized in the body, it produces acetaldehyde. The drug inhibits the further breakdown of acetaldehyde, causing it to accumulate in large amounts, leading to a series of adverse symptoms such as facial flushing, headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, rapid heartbeat, and difficulty breathing. In severe cases, this reaction may even be life-threatening.
Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited during treatment and for 7 days after stopping the medication. Also, avoid consuming any food or beverages containing alcohol. If you accidentally take the medication after drinking, closely monitor your physical condition. If any of the above symptoms occur, seek immediate medical attention. Roxithromycin must be taken strictly according to medical instructions; do not self-medicate. Before taking the drug, confirm that you have no known allergies to ensure safe use.
