Half of US adults mix alcohol with meds

Nearly half of American adults put their health at risk by mixing alcohol with medication, according to a recent study.

In a study released by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) today, 42% of US adults admitted to drinking while using medications known to interact with alcohol. Among those aged over 65, the percentage jumped to 78%.

Led by Dr. Rosalind Breslow, PhD, the report analysed the drinking habits of 26,000 adults aged 20 years and older and their prescription drug use in the past month.

The report warned that older adults were at particular risk, not only because they are more likely to be taking medications in general, but because certain alcohol-interactive medications such as diazepam (Valium) are metabolized more slowly in older people.

Dr Breslow said: “Our findings show that a substantial percentage of people who drink regularly, particularly older adults, could be at risk of harmful alcohol and medication interactions. We suggest that people talk to their doctor or pharmacist about whether they should avoid alcohol while taking their prescribed medications.”

Medications typically used include those prescribed for conditions such as depression, diabetes and high blood pressure with side effects ranging from mild nausea, headaches and loss of coordination to severe internal bleeding, heart problems and breathing difficulties.

The study appears in the February issue of Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research.