Can I Take acetaminophen with alcohol?

SUMMARY:

Taking acetaminophen together with alcohol raises the risk of liver injury; the risk is highest in people who drink heavily, have chronic alcohol use, or have existing liver disease, while occasional light drinking with recommended acetaminophen doses is less likely to cause harm for most people.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

Reason: Chronic heavy alcohol use induces liver enzymes (notably CYP2E1) that increase production of acetaminophen’s toxic metabolite (NAPQI), raising hepatotoxicity risk. Risk factors include chronic or binge alcohol use, pre-existing liver disease, malnutrition, or taking more than the recommended acetaminophen dose. Possible signs of liver injury: nausea, abdominal pain (especially right upper quadrant), jaundice, dark urine, persistent fatigue, or elevated liver tests. Practical caution: avoid combining alcohol and acetaminophen if you drink regularly or heavily; do not exceed the recommended acetaminophen dose and consult a healthcare provider if you have liver disease or frequent alcohol use or if you suspect overdose.