Drug – Alcohol (Ethyl Alcohol) Interactions

Alcohol is the oldest recreational substance, and its consumption is increasing all over the world as it produces a pleasurable effect and also it allows people to relax and unwind. A large number of over the counter and prescription medicine interacts with Alcohol by Pharmacokinetic and/or Pharmacodynamic mechanisms. Alcohol consumption with drugs having CNS depressant property may lead to marked impairment in psychomotor performance and making the person’s injury prone. Alcohol consumption increases the systemic toxicity and organ dysfunction caused by certain drugs. Alcohol consumption may cause unpleasant manifestations with a few drugs/substances (didisulfiram-likeeaction). Alcohol may reduce the therapeutic effect of a few drugs. Awareness about the various interactions of Alcohol with drugs/medicines/food/herbals/occupational agents will ensure the safety of the people consuming Alcohol and may help the physician in clinical decision-making.