Many of us will experience colds and coughs as the temperatures drop and winter approaches.
We also want to socialize with our friends and families, which can include drinking alcohol.
1
It’s important to understand if alcohol is safe for you to consume while taking medication if you have a serious illness.
Each pack of medication should include a Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) when it is prescribed.
This will help you understand how and when to take your medication. Before you begin taking it, it is essential that you thoroughly read this document.
This is even more important if you’re planning on consuming alcohol as booze can alter your body’s natural state, for example altering blood pressure, temperature and hydration levels, which could be dangerous when taken alongside medication.
There are some rules you need to follow when mixing medicine and alcohol.
One example is that you should not drink medication that makes you feel dizzy, changes your blood sugar, or increases blood pressure.
Also, avoid alcohol if you are taking painkillers. This includes opiates, medication for mental conditions, and medications that have to be taken in conjunction with opiate. Alcohol can make levels rise so it’s important not to drink.
This week is alcohol awareness week and pharmacist Scott McDougall, co-founder of The Independent Pharmacy said that it’s concerning when patients need to be treated for side effects caused by mixing medication with alcohol consumption.
He explained: “It’s vital that patients take medication dosages seriously and follow their doctor or pharmacist’s advice on whether or not they can consume alcohol alongside their medication.
“Remember, it’s always best to treat any medical issues you’re facing quickly and effectively with the appropriate medication and following the guidelines to the letter.”
Elderly patients need to be extra careful and should consult their pharmacist or GP about their medication requirements and alcohol intake.
Scott has listed four of the most dangerous medications that you shouldn’t drink alcohol with. However, it is important to always read the label for any prescriptions you receive.
1. Propranolol
Scott explains that Propranolol can be prescribed only and is a beta-blocker medication. It provides symptom relief for a variety of conditions including anxiety, heart disease, and migraines.
“Propranolol has three main purposes: to lower your blood pressure and slow down your heart beat.
Propranolol can also lower blood pressure. Propranolol mixed with alcohol can lead to dizziness, nausea and light-headedness.
“Health professionals advise avoiding alcohol when on Propranolol. If you are taking Propranolol, speak to your GP or pharmacist to see whether you need to avoid alcohol completely or if you need a unit limit depending on the type of prescription you are taking”He said so.