What are the effects of drinking alcohol on the body after taking cephalosporins?

Cephalosporins are among the widely used antibiotics for treating various bacterial infections. However, when patients consume alcohol while taking cephalosporins, some adverse reactions may occur.

Cephalosporins belong to the class of antibiotics whose efficacy may be affected by alcohol consumption, thereby reducing the therapeutic effectiveness. At the same time, taking both together may cause gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain, because cephalosporins and alcohol both irritate the gastrointestinal mucosa. Moreover, combining alcohol with cephalosporins may increase the burden on the liver, as both substances require metabolism by the liver. In individuals who drink heavily or over a long period, liver function may already be compromised; taking cephalosporins at this time may further worsen liver damage. Additionally, some cephalosporins, such as cefotetan and ceftriaxone, may cause disulfiram-like reactions when used with alcohol, manifesting as facial flushing, nausea, vomiting, palpitations, headache, and other symptoms. Severe reactions can lead to difficulty breathing, decreased blood pressure, and even shock.

Therefore, patients should strictly avoid consuming alcohol during treatment with cephalosporin antibiotics to prevent potential adverse reactions and ensure the safety and effectiveness of the treatment.