Can I drink a small amount of alcohol while taking antidiabetic medications?
Feb 13, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Tian Hongbo
Introduction
Alcohol inhibits gluconeogenesis in the liver, leading to decreased blood glucose levels. At the same time, antidiabetic medications also lower blood glucose; therefore, using both together increases the risk of hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia may cause symptoms such as dizziness, palpitations, tremors, and sweating. Both antidiabetic medications and alcohol require metabolism and excretion by the liver. Concurrent consumption places additional strain on the liver.
Generally, it is not recommended to consume even small amounts of alcohol while taking antidiabetic medications. The reasons are as follows:
Alcohol inhibits hepatic gluconeogenesis, leading to decreased blood glucose levels. At the same time, antidiabetic medications also lower blood glucose. Therefore, using both together increases the risk of hypoglycemia, which may cause symptoms such as dizziness, palpitations, tremors, and sweating.
Both antidiabetic medications and alcohol require metabolism and excretion by the liver. Consuming them simultaneously increases the burden on the liver and may lead to liver function impairment. Liver dysfunction may affect drug metabolism and excretion, thereby increasing the risk of adverse drug reactions.
Even small amounts of alcohol consumption may cause fluctuations in blood glucose levels, which is unfavorable for patients with diabetes. Long-term alcohol consumption may lead to various health problems such as cardiovascular disease and liver disease. These conditions may interact with diabetes, further increasing health risks for the patient.
To ensure the effectiveness of antidiabetic medications and patient safety, it is recommended to avoid alcohol consumption during treatment. Additionally, patients should maintain healthy lifestyle and dietary habits to better control blood glucose levels and prevent the occurrence of diabetes-related complications.
