Imagine a scenario wherein the allergies of your nose are acting up again, and in spite of taking over the counter medications for the whole day, you have not been able to relieve the symptoms. Moreover, it’s a Friday night, and you already have prior engagements with your friends. Would it be harmful in any way for you to consume alcohol while also taking on allergy medications? Let’s find out.
The Role Of Allergy Medications
The active ingredients that make up medicines used for relieving nasal allergies work by reducing congestion, running nose, cough and also pain caused due to sinus. When you look at a packet of these drugs, you will notice that they also have the side effects mentioned on the side of the pack. The most common side effects of these medications are drowsiness or dizziness after the consumption. It is for this very reason that most of the drugs come with a warning of not driving until you are completely aware of the strength of the side effects.
Is Mixing Alcohol With Medicine Dangerous
The side effects caused by allergy medications are almost similar to the side effects that are caused due to the consumption of alcohol. However, mixing medications with alcohol might result in increasing the intensity of the side effects. While in some instances this combination may result in bringing an overdose, however, this can happen even if you have followed the dosage instructions properly or mixed a very small amount of alcohol with the medications.
A common question that most people have in mind is – is it safe to drink alcohol if I have not taken any medications before coming out? Well, the answer is still no. The reason behind this is that even though you may not have taken the medications for an hour, there are chances that the active ingredients in the medication that you took the last time are still in the system. Therefore, it is advised that you do not drink for at least a day after you have had your medications.
What To Do If You Had Alcohol And Medicine
In case you mix medicine with alcohol, it is strongly recommended that you seek medical attention right away. There are chances that you may not feel the effects right away, however, the effect can intensify as the medicine and alcohol combines in your bloodstream. Quick and safe treatment is essential in order to avoid severe or fatal symptoms.