Alcohol is one of the most widely available addictive substances in the United States. Studies show that most adults in the US drink from time to time.[1] While many people drink alcohol as part of a relatively healthy lifestyle, some struggle with alcohol abuse or addiction.

It’s important to understand the effects of mixing alcohol with other common substances. Many people take Advil to reduce the pain from headaches, muscle strain, and other common sources. Many people may believe that because Advil is an over-the-counter drug that it is completely safe to use. However, mixing Advil and alcohol can have dangerous effects.

It is essential to stop drinking while taking Advil. However, some people may find it challenging to control their alcohol intake.

This article will explore the risks of mixing ibuprofen and alcohol.

If you or someone you love struggles with alcohol abuse or addiction, you are not alone. Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to explore our comprehensive treatment programs. You may also find support during any stage of recovery or schedule an intake appointment by reaching out to our specialists now.

What is Advil?

Advil (ibuprofen) is a brand name for ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) effective at reducing pain, inflammation, and fever.[2]

Most medical experts believe that it is safe to take ibuprofen occasionally. However, following all directions when using this over-the-counter pain reliever is important.

Combining Advil and other substances, including alcohol, can increase the risk of unwanted side effects and long-term problems. It is essential to know these risks and make informed decisions about your substance use.

Generally, medical professionals advise short-term use of ibuprofen. They recommend that people should not combine alcohol and ibuprofen. People who take ibuprofen should avoid even small amounts of alcohol.[3]

If people find it challenging to limit their alcohol intake while taking ibuprofen, they may require professional alcohol abuse treatment.

The Dangers of Mixing Advil and Alcohol

Most medical experts advise people to avoid mixing Advil and alcohol. Here is an overview of why it is important to avoid combining these substances.

GI effects

Mixing Advil and alcohol can lead to severe gastrointestinal (GI) side effects. Advil and alcohol both irritate the lining of the stomach. Alcohol also increases acid production in the stomach. Too much stomach acid can lead to uncomfortable or dangerous GI side effects, including:[3,4,5]

• Gastrointestinal bleeding
• Stomach ulcers
• Stomach pain

It is important to take the correct dose of ibuprofen and avoid combining Advil and alcohol.

Liver damage

The liver processes both alcohol and ibuprofen. Using a higher dose of ibuprofen or combining alcohol and Advil puts people at higher risk for liver damage.

Reduced effectiveness

Drinking alcohol while taking ibuprofen can decrease the effectiveness of ibuprofen. Alcohol can impair ibuprofen’s pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects.

Kidney damage

Research shows that long-term alcohol abuse can result in kidney damage. Combining ibuprofen and alcohol increases the risk of kidney damage. Signs of kidney damage include:

• Shortness of breath
• Drowsiness
• Swelling in the hands and feet

Kidney damage is a severe medical issue that requires immediate medical attention.

Drowsiness

One of the known side effects of ibuprofen is drowsiness, especially in high doses. Alcohol can also cause drowsiness. Combining alcohol and Advil can cause excessive drowsiness.

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How Much Alcohol is Too Much?

It can be challenging to recognize alcohol abuse. Alcohol is part of daily life for many adults in the United States. It is critical to know how much alcohol is too much and take steps to reduce alcohol consumption when necessary.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises people to drink in moderation. According to the CDC, moderate drinking means:[6]

• Two or fewer alcoholic drinks per day for men
• One or fewer alcoholic beverages per day for women

Heavy drinking means regularly exceeding the weekly limit for alcohol consumption set by the CDC. For men, this means having 15 or more alcoholic drinks in a week. For women, this means having eight or more alcoholic drinks per week.

Heavy drinking is associated with a range of long-term health conditions, including:

•  Higher risk for heart attack stroke
•  Higher risk for certain cancers, including stomach, colon, throat, and breast
•  Liver damage
•  Kidney damage

Drinking excessively also puts people at risk for accidents and injuries, as well as alcohol poisoning. It is important to look at your drinking and take steps to reduce it if necessary. People who develop alcohol use disorder (AUD) may require professional treatment to stop drinking and prevent relapse.

Find Treatment Now

While many risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing alcohol use disorder (AUD), anyone who drinks alcohol is at risk for alcohol abuse and addiction. If you struggle to stop drinking while taking Advil or other medications, you may require professional help.

Contact the Alamo Behavioral Health specialists to explore our comprehensive treatment and support programs. You may reach out with questions or to schedule an intake appointment.

References:

1. National Institute of Health (NIH): Alcohol Use in the United States: Age Groups and Demographic Characteristics
2. National Institute of Health (NIH): Ibuprofen
3. Springer Link: Ibuprofen Safety at the Golden Anniversary: Are all NSAIDs the Same? A Narrative Review
4. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA): Alcohol-Medication Interactions: Potentially Dangerous Mixes
5. National Institute of Health (NIH): Ibuprofen Increases the Hepatotoxicity of Ethanol through Potentiating Oxidative Stress
6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Alcohol Use and Your Health