Taking cold medicine and drinking alcohol is generally not recommended. Both cold medicines and alcohol can cause drowsiness and dizziness, so combining the two can increase these side effects. However, depending on the active ingredients and dosage of the cold medicine, it may be reasonably safe to drink a moderate amount of alcohol after a certain period of time.
How long do common cold medicines last?
Most over-the-counter cold medicines use antihistamines, decongestants, antitussives (cough suppressants), expectorants, and/or pain relievers. Here is how long some common ingredients last:
| Medicine | Duration of Effect |
|---|---|
| Antihistamines (diphenhydramine, chlorpheniramine) | 4-6 hours |
| Decongestants (pseudoephedrine, phenylephrine) | 4-6 hours |
| Cough suppressants (dextromethorphan, benzonatate) | 4-8 hours |
| Expectorants (guaifenesin) | 4-6 hours |
| Pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen, aspirin) | 4-6 hours |
As you can see, most common cold medicine ingredients last 4-6 hours. Some longer-acting cough suppressants can work for up to 8 hours.
Dangers of mixing cold medicine and alcohol
Combining alcohol and cold medicine can be dangerous because both substances depress the central nervous system. Effects of mixing them can include:
- Extreme drowsiness
- Impaired motor skills and reflexes
- Dizziness and loss of coordination
- Slowed or difficulty breathing
- Impaired judgment
- Dangerous drops in blood pressure
- Loss of consciousness
These effects increase the risk of accidents and serious injuries. The additive depressing effects on respiratory function can be especially dangerous if vomiting occurs while passed out.
How long to wait before drinking alcohol
There are no definitive standards on how long to wait after taking cold medicine before drinking alcohol. A conservative rule of thumb is to wait at least:
- 4 hours after taking any cold medicine containing antihistamines, decongestants, cough suppressants, or expectorants
- 6-8 hours after taking extended release cough suppressants
- No alcohol if you are still feeling any effects from the cold medicine
Following these guidelines helps minimize the risk of dangerous interactions with alcohol. However, the best advice is not to drink at all while taking cold medications until all symptoms are gone.
Wait longer with higher dosages
The duration of cold medication effects depends not only on the ingredients, but also the dosage taken. Higher doses will remain in your system longer. It’s recommended to wait at least:
- 6 hours after double doses of 4-6 hour cold medicines
- 8-10 hours after triple doses or taking multiple types of cold meds
If you have taken large amounts of cold medication, it is best to avoid alcohol completely until the next day.
Pay attention to any lingering effects
Regardless of how long it has been since you took cold medicine, you should wait until you are no longer experiencing any effects before drinking. If you still feel drowsy, dizzy, slowed down or otherwise impaired, hold off on alcohol. Do not drink until all evidence of the medication has worn off completely.
Safe amount of alcohol after cold medicine
After waiting the recommended time, it may be reasonably safe to drink a small or moderate amount of alcohol. However, everyone responds differently based on factors like:
- Individual metabolism and tolerance
- Strength and type of alcohol consumed
- Amount of alcohol consumed
- Amount and types of cold medicine taken
To be cautious, keep alcohol intake to no more than:
- 1-2 standard drinks for men
- 1 standard drink for women
One standard drink is:
- 12 oz regular beer
- 5 oz wine
- 1.5 oz distilled spirits
Never binge drink or over-consume alcohol after taking cold medications, even if you think the effects have worn off. Moderation is key.
Avoid alcohol completely with certain medicines
There are some cold and cough medicines that should never be mixed with alcohol. You should avoid all alcohol if you have taken:
- Narcotic cough suppressants like codeine or hydrocodone
- Sedating antihistamines like doxylamine
- DM cough syrups (especially if taking large amounts)
Drinking any amount of alcohol with these medications greatly increases risks of overdose and respiratory depression.
Other safety tips
In addition to limiting alcohol intake, follow these tips for safety after taking cold medicine:
- Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery
- Do not take other sedatives or sleep aids
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Get plenty of rest
- Ask a friend or family member to check on you
- If symptoms get worse, seek medical attention
Be especially careful if you are taking other medications that may interact with the cold medicine or alcohol. When in doubt, don’t drink until you have fully recovered.
The bottom line
It’s best to avoid drinking alcohol completely when taking cold medications. However, if you choose to drink, wait at least 4-6 hours after short-acting formulas, 8 hours after long-acting cough suppressants, and until all effects have subsided. Limit intake to 1-2 standard drinks and stay well hydrated. Never drink heavily after taking cold medicine. Be aware that some medicines should never be combined with alcohol under any circumstances. Use good judgment and put safety first.