Ciprofloxacin is a treatment for different kinds of infections. These can be infections on practically any part of the body such as bone, urinary tract, skin and lungs infections. While there is no warning listed for the interaction of the drug with alcohol, it is still not a good idea to mix the two together.
The primary reason behind this is because you need to stay hydrated while using Ciprofloxacin. One side effect that can occur with this drug is called crystalluria. Crystalluria is a buildup in the urinary tract that is very similar to kidney stones. Without proper hydration, this condition can easily occur. Alcohol is a diuretic, promoting an increased production in urine, resulting in dehydration as it makes you urinate more.
Alcohol dehydrates your body rapidly, which makes it dangerous to use while you are on this medication. It’s a good idea to avoid it altogether and wait to drink any alcohol until after you are off the drug entirely and your infection has cleared up.
Ciprofloxacin travels through specific pathways in the body as it works to defeat the infection. These pathways need to be clear for it to be effective, but alcohol negatively affects the same pathways. This interaction can make the drug less effective and will require you take it for longer or increase your dosage for it to be able to have the desired effect if you consume alcohol regularly while on this drug, you are going to negate its effects altogether. It’s best not even to have a little alcohol until you have completed the medication course.
Even small amounts of alcohol can work to counter the mechanism of action of the drug. You may end up having to deal with the infection for longer than usual because you consumed some alcohol. You might think having a little drink could be harmless, but you have to take into account the many ways it can interact with and hinder the medication you are taking.
Before you decide to risk it, then you should talk to your doctor first and get a professional opinion. Only your doctor knows the severity of your condition and your particular circumstances. Your doctor will be able to better inform you as to whether it is safe to take alcohol with Ciprofloxacin.
