mixed alcohol and paxlovid: is it safe?
Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir and ritonavir), an antiviral medication developed by Pfizer for the treatment of coronavirus diseases (COVID-19), has been recently authorized for emergency use by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While Paxlovid has been shown to be effective in reducing the severity of COVID-19 symptoms and preventing hospitalization in high-risk individuals, reports have raised concerns about its interaction with alcohol.
alcohol and paxlovid: is it safe?
alcohol and paxlovid interactions
alcohol can impair the liver's ability to metabolize medications, including Paxlovid. This can lead to higher levels of the medication in the bloodstream, potentially causing an overdose or worsening side effects. Moreover, alcohol can weaken the immune system, reducing its effectiveness in fighting off infections, including COVID-19. The combination of alcohol and Paxlovid can lead to increased side effects such as diarrhea, high blood pressure, and muscle aches, and may also exacerbate existing side effects, such as nausea and dizziness.
alcohol and paxlovid side effects
consumption of alcohol while on Paxlovid can increase the risk of mild to moderate side effects, such as drowsiness, dizziness, and muscle pain. serious side effects requiring medical attention, especially concerning liver health, can arise from combining alcohol and Paxlovid. These include yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, abdominal pain, unexplained fatigue, and increased risk of liver damage or failure. The most serious side effects are potentially life-threatening, and should be monitored closely.
alcohol and paxlovid long-term side effects
long-term alcohol consumption and paxlovid combination may affect liver, blood pressure, and kidney function, increasing the risk for conditions such as fatty liver disease, hepatitis, or liver cirrhosis, and blood pressure issues, as well as exacerbating existing conditions. People with a history of alcohol abuse face heightened risks, as alcohol abuse can affect the body's ability to metabolize medications, making it harder to manage these long-term effects effectively.
