Health Tip: Alcohol Can Interact With Medications

(HealthDay News) -- Over-the-counter medications may seem safer because they don't require a prescription. But they can still interact badly when alcohol enters the mix.

The American Academy of Family Physicians mentions these popular medications that may have adverse effects if mixed with alcohol:

NSAID pain relievers, which may lead to gastrointestinal bleeding if taken while consuming as few as two alcoholic drink per week.
Acetaminophen, which may cause liver damage when taken with alcohol.
Some OTC antihistamines can make you drowsy when taken with alcohol.
Decongestants and cough medications that contain the cough suppressant dextromethorphan can increase drowsiness when taken with alcohol.
Herbal supplements, such as kava kava, St. John's wort or valerian root, may increase drowsiness if taken with alcohol.

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