As the festive season gets into full swing, a leading pharmacist has issued a crucial health warning to the millions of people who may be considering taking painkillers after a night of drinking. Ian Budd, a Prescribing Pharmacist at Chemist4U, has detailed the potential dangers and provided expert advice on how to properly treat a hangover.
The Hidden Danger in Your Medicine Cabinet
Many people reach for pain relief after consuming alcohol, but this common practice can be hazardous. Ian Budd specifically highlights the risk of taking paracetamol. He explains that this is dangerous because both alcohol and paracetamol are processed by the liver. This dual burden can significantly increase the risk of liver damage.
If you feel you must take a painkiller, Ian suggests that ibuprofen taken the next morning is a better option, but only if it is consumed with plenty of food and water. He strongly advises everyone to check with their pharmacist to see which painkillers are suitable for their individual circumstances.
The Real Cure for a Hangover
According to the expert, the most effective remedy for a hangover doesn't come from a pill bottle. The real 'cure' comes from your tap. Ian states that alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it causes your body to lose fluids and essential electrolytes. The key to recovery is to rehydrate and rest.
Water, sports drinks, or oral rehydration salts can all help restore balance. For a proactive approach, he recommends alternating alcoholic drinks with water throughout the evening and having a full glass of water before going to bed.
Hangover Myths and Other Medication Dangers
Ian Budd also debunked several common hangover myths. He clarified that eating after drinking does not remove alcohol from your system; your liver still needs time to break it down at a rate of about one unit per hour. While a fry-up might make you feel temporarily better due to the salt and carbohydrates, it won't speed up your recovery and may even worsen nausea.
Similarly, caffeine might make you feel more alert, but it doesn't help your body process alcohol any faster. Coffee is also a diuretic, which can compound dehydration. A cold shower is equally ineffective, as it does not reduce your blood alcohol level.
The warning extends beyond common painkillers. Alcohol can interact dangerously with a wide range of drugs, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines. Mixing alcohol with sedatives, antidepressants, or strong painkillers can intensify drowsiness and coordination problems. Drinking while on antibiotics can cause severe nausea, flushing, and vomiting.
Even everyday medications like antihistamines and cold remedies can increase alcohol's sedative effects. For those on statins, it is best to drink in moderation or avoid alcohol altogether, as both substances are processed by the liver and heavy drinking can elevate the risk of liver damage and muscle-related side effects.
Ian Budd's final piece of advice is clear: Always check the patient information leaflet or ask your pharmacist before drinking while taking any medication, as even small amounts of alcohol can have unpredictable and dangerous effects.
