Paxlovid and Alcohol: Risks and Safety Considerations

Since its emergency use authorization in late 2021, Paxlovid has become an important tool in the fight against COVID-19, helping to prevent severe complications of the virus and save thousands of lives. This antiviral medication is designed to reduce viral replication in the body, making it especially important for high-risk individuals who contract COVID-19 [1].

Many people wonder whether they can continue drinking alcohol while taking Paxlovid, especially during the holiday season, which also tends to be flu season, and when social gatherings and celebrations are most common. 

Medical experts strongly advise against combining alcohol with Paxlovid, as drinking can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment, increase side effects, and place increased strain on the liver. While it might be tempting to have a drink while recovering, the safest approach is not to drink alcohol until the entire course of medication is finished.

What is Paxlovid? 

Paxlovid is a prescription antiviral treatment for COVID-19. It consists of nirmatrelvir and ritonavir. Nirmatrelvir suppresses a key enzyme (3CL protease) that the coronavirus uses to replicate. Ritonavir slows down the breakdown of nirmatrelvir in the body to increase its effectiveness [1]. 

This combination has been proven to reduce the viral load of COVID-19 in the bloodstream, decrease symptom severity, and lower the risk of complications or “long-COVID”. Paxlovid is usually prescribed within five days of symptom onset and is taken for five to seven days [1]. 

Can You Drink Alcohol While Taking Paxlovid? 

No, you should not drink alcohol while taking Paxlovid. There is no explicit warning label that says “avoid alcohol”, but almost all medical professionals agree you should not combine the two. 

This is mainly due to how ritonavir affects certain enzymes in the liver, which, when combined with alcohol, can cause several short-term side effects and long-term health complications.  Besides the stated health risks,  when you consume alcohol, your liver goes into overdrive to metabolize it. It can make the Paxlovid less effective as the ritonavir component depends on liver enzymes [2]. 

Possible Side Effects of Mixing Alcohol and Paxlovid 

Both Paxlovid and alcohol on their own can cause adverse side effects that, when combined, can be more intense and include: 

• Nausea or upset stomach
• Headaches or dizziness
• Fatigue or drowsiness
• Possible increased liver strain

Health Risks of Combining Paxlovid with Alcohol 

Paxlovid already places stress on the liver and gastrointestinal system. By adding alcohol into the mix, it greatly increases the risk of complications. 

Liver Damage 

Both alcohol and Paxlovid are metabolized in the liver, and ritonavir affects liver enzymes. Drinking alcohol while taking Paxlovid significantly increases the risk of liver toxicity. Monitor for signs such as: 

• Abdominal pain in the upper right side 
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes 
• Excessive fatigue 
• Dark yellow or brown urine
• Intense nausea or vomiting

If you have a pre-existing condition such as hepatitis or fatty liver disease, the risks are even higher, and drinking should be avoided entirely.

Gastrointestinal Issues 

Paxlovid is known to cause nausea, diarrhea, and stomach discomfort. When alcohol is added to the mix, these symptoms often become more intense as alcohol irritates the lining of the stomach and intestines. 

Mixing alcohol and Paxlovid can cause intense nausea or vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and lack of appetite. This can also lead to dehydration and nutritional deficiencies that complicate and prolong recovery from COVID.  

Weakened Immune Response and Longer Recovery 

It is usually advised not to drink alcohol when recovering from COVID-19 or any viral infection. Alcohol, even in small amounts, can suppress immune function by decreasing white blood cell count, slowing the body’s inflammatory response, and impacting cytokine function.  

Who Is At Increased Risk of Complications?

Certain individuals are more vulnerable to the risks associated with mixing Paxlovid and alcohol. If you fall into any of the following categories, make sure to avoid alcohol until fully finishing your Paxlovid treatment [2]:

• Older adults 65+ with lower metabolism or reduced liver function
• Individuals with pre-existing liver conditions, such as HIV or fatty liver disease 
• People with a history of alcohol use disorder 
• Individuals with autoimmune diseases and chronic diseases 

Safe Practices When Taking Paxlovid

Paxlovid is generally safe with few reported side effects when taken correctly. A few tips to ensure you are taking Paxlovid safely and effectively include: 

• Avoid alcohol completely during the treatment course 
• Take Paxlovid exactly as prescribed and continue taking it even if you feel better before the course is finished
• Stay hydrated, especially if you have COVID-19 symptoms such as fever or chills. Drink water, tea, and Gatorade 
• Eat nourishing foods that are easy on the stomach such as chicken soup 
• Let your doctor know all the medications or supplements you are on before starting Paxlovid
• Limit intense exercise and activity and prioritize sleep and rest as your body recovers from the virus.    

Christian Alcohol Rehab for Men in Arizona   

If you’re struggling with alcohol use, even occasional drinking while on medications like Paxlovid can be risky, impacting your health and recovery. At AnchorPoint, our Christ-centered program helps men break free from alcohol dependence, protect their bodies, and strengthen their faith.

Through our unique Neurofaith™ approach, we combine science-backed addiction treatment with spiritual guidance to help men reclaim their health, navigate challenges safely, and rise stronger from addiction. 

Let us help you build a foundation for lasting recovery, physically, mentally, and spiritually.

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