Can I take Alcohol and Codeine together?

Why this happens

Both alcohol and codeine are 'central nervous system depressants'. This means they both slow down the activity of your brain and nervous system. When taken together, they 'double up' on this effect, making the impact much stronger and more dangerous than taking either one alone.

What you should do

You should strictly avoid drinking any alcohol while taking codeine. Even small amounts of alcohol can significantly increase the risk of serious side effects. If you feel unusually sleepy or have any difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Important precautions

Asthma or breathing problems

Do not take codeine if you have severe asthma or breathing difficulties, as it can dangerously slow down your breathing.

Breastfeeding

Do not take codeine while breastfeeding. It can pass into breast milk and cause life-threatening breathing problems or extreme sleepiness in your baby.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.