How long after receiving the third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine can you drink alcohol?
Dec 04, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
In general, it is recommended to wait at least 7 days after receiving the third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine before drinking alcohol. Consuming alcohol shortly after vaccination may affect the vaccine's effectiveness or worsen physical discomfort; adjustments should be made according to individual reactions. It is advisable to drink plenty of warm water and ensure adequate rest to support recovery. Once the immune response has stabilized, moderate alcohol consumption can resume, which will neither interfere with the vaccine’s efficacy nor significantly increase health risks.
Generally, it is recommended to wait at least 7 days after receiving the third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine before consuming alcohol. Drinking shortly after vaccination may affect the vaccine's effectiveness or worsen physical discomfort; the exact timing should be adjusted based on individual reactions. Detailed explanations are as follows:
After vaccination, the body's immune system initiates a response to produce protective antibodies, a process that typically takes 3–7 days to stabilize. Alcohol consumption may interfere with normal immune function, reduce the efficiency of antibody production, and thus diminish the vaccine’s protective effect. Additionally, alcohol metabolism increases the burden on the liver. Since some individuals may experience mild side effects such as fatigue or low-grade fever after vaccination, drinking alcohol could exacerbate these symptoms.
If noticeable side effects occur within 7 days after vaccination—such as redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site, dizziness, or nausea—the interval before drinking should be extended until all symptoms have completely resolved. Even after waiting 7 days, alcohol intake should begin with a small amount, avoiding drinking on an empty stomach or excessive consumption, to minimize bodily stress.
In daily life, it is advisable to drink plenty of warm water and ensure adequate rest to support recovery. Once the immune response has stabilized, moderate alcohol consumption can resume without compromising vaccine efficacy or increasing health risks.
