"175 • Do other drugs for my condition have different side effects? • How can I learn more about this condition and this drug? Harmful Interactions: Mixing Alcohol with Medicines You’ve probably seen this warning on medicines you’ve taken. The danger is real. Mixing alcohol with certain medications can cause nausea and vomiting, headaches, drowsiness, fainting, or loss of coordination. It also can put you at risk for internal bleeding, heart problems, and d ifficulties in breathing. In addition to these dangers, alcohol can make a medication less effective or even useless, or it may make the medication harmful or toxic to your body. Some medicines that you might never have suspected can react with alcohol, in cluding many medications which can be purchased “over - the - counter” — that is, without a prescription. Even some herbal remedies can have harmful effects when combined with alcohol. Medications are safe and effective when used appropriately. Your pharmacist or other health care provider can help you determine which medications interact harmfully with alcohol. Did You Know… Mixing alcohol and medicines can be harmful. Alcohol, like some medicines, can make you sleepy, drowsy, or lightheaded. Drinking alcohol while taking medicines can intensify these effects. You may have trouble concentrating or performing mechanical skills. Small amounts of alcohol can make it dangerous to drive, and when you mix alcohol with certain medicines you put yourself at even great er risk. Combining alcohol with some medicines can lead to falls and serious injuries, especially among older people. Medicines may have many ingredients Some medications — including many popular painkillers and cough, cold, and allergy remedies — contain mor e than one ingredient that can react with alcohol. Read the label on the medication bottle to find out exactly what ingredients a medicine contains. Ask your pharmacist if you have any questions about how alcohol might interact with a drug you are taking. Some medicines contain alcohol Certain medicines contain up to 10 percent alcohol. Cough syrup and laxatives may have some of the highest alcohol concentrations."