At a glance
- There is no single rule for all antibiotics.
- Avoid alcohol with metronidazole and tinidazole as NHS guidance advises.
- Alcohol may worsen side effects or affect recovery.
- Ask about your specific medicine rather than guessing from a drug class.
Important exceptions
NHS guidance advises completely avoiding alcohol while taking metronidazole or tinidazole; follow the specific leaflet for how long to avoid it after the last dose. Linezolid can interact with some fermented alcoholic drinks, and alcohol may affect doxycycline in certain circumstances.
Do not assume an antibiotic is safe with alcohol because another one was. Drug names and formulations matter.
Even without a direct interaction
Alcohol may make you feel more sick or dizzy while taking a medicine, and being unwell may be a good reason to avoid drinking. An interaction is only one part of the question: the infection and your general health also matter.
A pharmacist can check your medicine, other drugs you take and the wording of the leaflet.
What about other medicines?
Some antibiotics interact with prescription medicines and contraception. Tell your pharmacist about your full medicine list, including supplements. For example, rifampicin can reduce the effectiveness of some hormonal contraceptives; get personal advice about alternatives.
Sources
Original referencesThese sources informed this overview. Their organisations do not endorse or review this website.
This page is for general education only. It does not replace advice from a doctor, pharmacist or other qualified healthcare professional. Read our medical disclaimer.