Can drinking alcohol after taking cephalosporins lead to death?

Generally, whether drinking alcohol while taking cephalosporin antibiotics can lead to death depends on specific circumstances, including the type of cephalosporin used and individual differences. The detailed analysis is as follows:

When taking cephalosporins without a methythiotetrazole side chain—such as cefaclor or cefuroxime axetil—and consuming only a small amount of alcohol, death typically will not occur, especially in individuals with high tolerance. These types of cephalosporins carry a lower risk of triggering a disulfiram-like reaction; minimal alcohol intake may cause only mild symptoms such as dizziness or nausea, which often resolve spontaneously. However, close monitoring of bodily changes is still recommended.

However, when taking cephalosporins containing specific side chains—such as cefoperazone or ceftriaxone—or when consuming large amounts of alcohol, or in individuals with high sensitivity, death may occur. These cephalosporins strongly inhibit alcohol-metabolizing enzymes, leading to significant accumulation of acetaldehyde in the body. This can trigger a severe disulfiram-like reaction, causing symptoms such as laryngeal edema and shock. Without prompt medical treatment, these reactions can be life-threatening.

Before using cephalosporin antibiotics, patients should carefully read the drug instructions and inform their doctor of their alcohol consumption history and any drug allergies. Medication should be taken appropriately under medical supervision, avoiding self-adjustment of dosage or discontinuation.