How long after taking anti-inflammatory medication can I drink alcohol?
Disease description:
I caught a cold, and then my tonsils became severely inflamed, so I took anti-inflammatory medication. I would like to ask, how long after taking anti-inflammatory medication can I drink alcohol?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
How long after taking anti-inflammatory medication can one consume alcohol? This time interval varies depending on the type of medication and individual constitution, but it is generally recommended to wait at least 24 to 48 hours to ensure the medication has been fully metabolized and eliminated from the body. Concurrent intake of anti-inflammatory drugs and alcohol may increase the burden on the liver, affect the drug's metabolism process, and potentially cause adverse reactions such as nausea, vomiting, and headaches. Moreover, certain anti-inflammatory medications (e.g., cephalosporin antibiotics) can trigger severe disulfiram-like reactions when used with alcohol, endangering life safety.
Note that if unsure whether a specific medication interacts with alcohol, it is best to consult a physician.
