Can I Take aspirin with alcohol?

SUMMARY:

Using aspirin together with alcohol increases the risk of gastrointestinal irritation and bleeding; the risk is greater with frequent/heavy alcohol use, higher aspirin doses, older age, or a history of ulcers or bleeding disorders.

ADDITIONAL NOTES:

Aspirin irreversibly inhibits platelet function and can irritate the stomach lining; alcohol also irritates the gastrointestinal tract and can affect clotting, so their effects can be additive. Higher risk with chronic heavy drinking, concurrent anticoagulant or other NSAID use, prior peptic ulcer disease, liver disease, or advanced age. Watch for signs of bleeding (black/tarry stools, vomiting blood, unexplained bruising, prolonged bleeding) and severe abdominal pain or dizziness. Discuss alcohol use with the prescribing clinician before starting or while taking aspirin.