Acetaminophen and Alcohol

Acetaminophen is an important over the counter analgesic and antipyretic. An analgesic or pain killer is basically, used for relieving pain. On the other hand, acetaminophen is also an antipyretic drug, for which it can be used for lowering body temperature in case of fever. Nowadays, it is an ingredient in more than 200 drugs and medications, that are mainly used for relieving headache, minor pain and fever. If administered in the appropriate dosage, acetaminophen is a very effective drug. But, overdose, as well as mixing ingesting it with alcohol can prove quite dangerous at times.

Why Ingesting Acetaminophen After Intoxication is Bad for You

Acetaminophen overdose or toxicity is the leading cause of acute liver failure, especially in United States. The risk for developing hepatotoxicity or liver toxicity can increase further, due to alcohol consumption. Regular alcohol consumption has been found to stimulate the liver enzyme, CYP2E1, which in turn increases the capacity of the liver to metabolize or break down alcohol more easily. But, the same enzyme can generate a toxic by-product, while breaking down acetaminophen into other chemicals for its elimination from the body. The result of this interaction is acute liver failure, which can require immediate liver transplantation. Otherwise, acute liver failure can lead to the death of affected individuals within a few days.

It has been found that, regular and chronic drinkers are at a higher risk for experiencing the side effect of this deadly combination. Therefore, alcohol consumption should be avoided, while taking this medication. Many times, physicians suggest another medication instead of acetaminophen, for the chronic or hard drinkers. Similarly, the individuals with liver problems or disorders are also advised to avoid both these things altogether.

It has been observed that the risk for developing hepatotoxicity is maximum, when it is taken after drinking alcohol. Alcohol consumption stimulates the production of the liver enzyme CPY2E1. So, when it is ingested after drinking, the enzyme immediately starts to break down the medication, thereby generating the toxic by-product. The larger the amount of alcohol with this medication, the higher is the risk for experiencing liver problems or complications.

Other Side Effects of Acetaminophen

The most common side effects are certain gastrointestinal problems like, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, vomiting and upset stomach. Sometimes, it can also cause jaundice, unusual bleeding and bruising, convulsions and severe allergic reactions. Allergic reactions can manifest in swelling and breathing difficulties. Such side effects should be immediately reported to a physician, to avoid major complications. An overdose of this medication can also result in ulcers in the digestive tract, as well as stomach bleeding. So, acetaminophen can give rise to several serious medical conditions, if not taken with adequate care. The most serious complication, i.e. acute liver failure can result due to an overdose, and a popping its pill while intoxicated. Therefore, one should consult a physician before taking it, and disclose all information, pertaining to alcohol consumption.

People with an underlying liver disorder should also talk to their health care provider, prior to taking this medication. Though, an antidote, known as N-acetylcysteine is available for acetaminophen toxicity, it has to be administered within 8 hours of taking acetaminophen. For this, it is important to recognize the symptoms of acetaminophen toxicity as soon as possible. However, the best way to avoid any serious complication is to maintain adequate precaution, by avoiding alcohol abuse and taking this medicine only according to the prescribed dosage.