Can I take Alcohol and Paracetamol together?

If you are taking paracetamol for pain, it is best to avoid alcohol entirely as combining them increases the risk of liver damage or even liver failure.

Never exceed the maximum dose of paracetamol (usually 4 grams or eight 500mg tablets in 24 hours), as alcohol makes even a small overdose much more dangerous.

If you drink more than 3 units of alcohol a day on a regular basis, you must speak to your doctor before taking paracetamol.

Why this happens

The liver breaks down paracetamol into a toxic byproduct. Normally, the liver uses a substance called glutathione to neutralise this toxin. Alcohol can deplete the liver's supply of glutathione and also cause the liver to produce more of the toxic byproduct, making it harder for the body to protect itself from liver damage.

You may be experiencing an interaction between alcohol and paracetamol if:

• You have nausea or vomiting after drinking alcohol and taking paracetamol.

• You develop upper abdominal pain or tenderness.

• You feel unusually tired, weak, or unwell.

• You notice yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).

• You have dark urine or pale poo (stools).

• Blood tests show raised liver enzymes.

• Symptoms appear after drinking alcohol regularly or in large amounts while taking paracetamol.
  

If you have any of the above symptoms, you should:

• Seek medical advice urgently, especially if you have abdominal pain or feel very unwell.

• Call NHS 111 or attend A&E immediately if you have taken more than the recommended dose of paracetamol.

• Do not take any more paracetamol or drink alcohol until you have been medically reviewed.

• Tell the healthcare professional exactly how much paracetamol and alcohol you have had, and when.

• Attend any blood tests arranged to check your liver function.
  

Liver damage

Regularly drinking alcohol significantly increases the risk of severe liver damage if you take paracetamol. Do not exceed the maximum dose of paracetamol, and avoid heavy drinking while using it.

Combination products

Many cold and flu remedies also contain paracetamol. Taking more than one product containing paracetamol can lead to a fatal overdose. Always check the ingredients of other medicines.

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.