(HealthDay News) — Over-the-counter medications may seem safer because they don’t require a prescription. But they can still interact badly when alcohol enters the mix.
The American Academy of Family Physicians mentions these popular medications that may have adverse effects if mixed with alcohol:
- NSAID pain relievers, which may lead to gastrointestinal bleeding if taken while consuming as few as two alcoholic drink per week.
- Acetaminophen, which may cause liver damage when taken with alcohol.
- Some OTC antihistamines can make you drowsy when taken with alcohol.
- Decongestants and cough medications that contain the cough suppressant dextromethorphan can increase drowsiness when taken with alcohol.
- Herbal supplements, such as kava kava, St. John’s wort or valerian root, may increase drowsiness if taken with alcohol.