It is a fact that medications that make us drowsy should never be taken with alcoholic beverages because alcohol can also make us drowsy. However, there are other medicines that change the way our bodies metabolize alcohol if we choose to drink. This alteration can increase the toxic byproduct, known as acetaldehyde, which is usually present when alcohol is ingested. Acetaldehyde can make individuals with a high alcohol concentration in the blood feel sick through the induction of vomiting and high heart rate. Alcohol must always be avoided because there is no 100% certainty that the drug prescribed is safe from the effects of alcohol use. Lastly, it is important to note that when on medications, alcohol is not the only culprit that may cause physiological and health issues, other foods can too.
