From the Research
It is generally safe to consume alcohol in moderation while taking ceftriaxone, but it is advisable to avoid alcohol until the infection has resolved to minimize potential risks to morbidity, mortality, and quality of life. Unlike some other antibiotics such as metronidazole or tinidazole, ceftriaxone does not cause a disulfiram-like reaction when combined with alcohol 1. Ceftriaxone works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis and does not interact with alcohol metabolism in the liver. However, consuming alcohol while your body is fighting an infection is not ideal for several reasons. Alcohol can weaken your immune system, potentially making it harder for your body to fight the infection that the ceftriaxone is treating. It may also increase the risk of certain side effects like stomach upset, dizziness, or drowsiness. Additionally, both alcohol and ceftriaxone are processed by the liver, so combining them puts extra strain on this organ.
Some studies have investigated the effects of ceftriaxone on ethanol consumption, suggesting that ceftriaxone may reduce ethanol intake in alcohol-preferring rats by up-regulating glutamate transporter 1 (GLT1) expression 2, 3. However, the clinical relevance of these findings to humans is unclear. A more recent study found that ceftriaxone did not influence drinking in ethanol-dependent or non-dependent mice, and did not increase GLT-1 expression in the accumbens core or shell, except in ethanol-dependent mice receiving the highest dose of ceftriaxone 4.
It's also important to consider the potential risk of liver injury associated with ceftriaxone use, as reported in a recent study 5. While the prognosis is generally good, patients with concomitant sickle cell anemia may be at higher risk of severe hemolytic anemia. To prioritize morbidity, mortality, and quality of life, it is recommended to avoid alcohol consumption during ceftriaxone treatment, especially in patients with pre-existing liver disease or other underlying health conditions. If you do choose to drink, do so in moderation and be aware of how your body responds.
Key points to consider:
- Ceftriaxone does not cause a disulfiram-like reaction with alcohol
- Alcohol consumption may weaken the immune system and increase the risk of side effects
- Ceftriaxone and alcohol are both processed by the liver, which may put extra strain on this organ
- The effects of ceftriaxone on ethanol consumption are unclear and may vary depending on the individual and the context
- Patients with pre-existing liver disease or other underlying health conditions should exercise caution when consuming alcohol during ceftriaxone treatment.