When we get sick, we often turn to medical intervention to speed up our recovery. Whether we have a cold, the manflu, or something serious, getting better is essential to our mental health. We have bills to pay and a tissue-free life to lead. Taking antibiotics has some risks that are not always understood, while reaching for a hot toddy may seem instinctual. Combining the two, alcohol and antibiotics, can not only be an overload for your liver, but it can also increase your DUI risk once you get on the road to better health.
There are risks involved with drinking alcohol when you have a cold or other seasonal illness. If you have an ignition interlock, you could be faced with a new DUI charge, or at least an interlock violation, all because of the alcohol in the medication you have taken. At the same time, combining alcohol and cold or flu medications can increase the effects of alcohol. Also, anyone with a cold, flu or sinus problems may already have problems with driving, due to sleepiness or congestion issues. Adding alcohol on top of that could be a DUI risk leading to a DUI reality.
When it comes to alcohol and antibiotics, medical professionals warn of the possibilities of harming your liver. Both alcohol and antibiotics require the liver to metabolize the drug in each product. Mixing them together can create problems for the liver, leading to a slower recovery time from the initial illness, as well as the sluggishness and dehydration from alcohol. Plus, the antibiotics can take a longer time to work, delaying the effectiveness of the medication.
As with any type of DUI risk, err on the side of caution. The best way to avoid a DUI and heal quickly from any illness is to stay off the roads and rest. The day or two you take for yourself will reduce any DUI risk, and increase the effectiveness of any type of medication, antibiotics, or even that yummy hot toddy (consumed in moderation, of course) and before you know it, you will be back in the driver’s seat.
Staying Sober and the Texas DWI Diversion Program