You’ve been cured of a nasty infection for a few days, but still on antibiotics, when you’re offered a drink. Should we accept? Yes, but you may be content with sparkling water. Because know this: some antibiotics are your worst enemies when you drink alcohol.
Antibiotics: dangerous reactions for certain antibiotics
“There is indeed a particular class of antibiotics that is chemically incompatible with any form of alcohol, even in small amounts,” explains Jean-Christophe Nogrette. Thus, the families of nitroimidazoles, cephalosporins and other antifungals “used to treat certain specific germs and whose metronidazole is the leader can lead to nausea and stomach pain when drinking alcohol, continues the doctor. Moreover, derivatives of this drug were even used in the past to wean alcoholics.
What about other antibiotics?
Know it : “The other families of antibiotics are not particularly incompatible with alcohol.” But of course, “However, it should be drunk in moderation.” For what ? Mainly because alcohol attacks the abdominal wall and weakens an immune system already strained by illness. “When you’re infected and tired, it’s not the time to drink anyway,” adds Doctor Nogrette.
In short: watch the name of your medication… and your consumption. And if you have the slightest doubt as to the nature of your antibiotics and their compatibility with alcohol, refer to the instructions for your medicine in the “adverse effects” section, otherwise abstain and talk to your doctor. !