Can You Drink Alcohol When Taking Xarelto?

Alcohol and medication do not always make a good combination. If you’re taking the blood thinner Xarelto, you may be wondering if it is safe to consume alcohol. This article will explain the potential risks and considerations associated with drinking alcohol while taking Xarelto. We’ll also provide tips on how to stay safe and enjoy your drinks responsibly.

Can You Drink Alcohol While Taking Xarelto?

Xarelto (rivaroxaban) is a common anticoagulant drug used to reduce the risk of stroke and blood clots in people with atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism. As with any medication, it is important to follow the directions of your healthcare provider when taking Xarelto. It is also important to consider the other substances you are ingesting when taking Xarelto, such as alcohol. This article will explore the potential risks and benefits of drinking alcohol while taking Xarelto.

Risks of Drinking Alcohol While Taking Xarelto

Alcohol can increase the risk of bleeding in people taking Xarelto. This is because alcohol can increase the effects of the drug, making it more difficult for the body to form blood clots. This can cause bleeding in the brain, stomach, intestines, or other areas of the body. In addition, drinking alcohol can reduce the effectiveness of Xarelto, making it less effective at preventing blood clots.

Alcohol can also increase the risk of certain side effects of Xarelto. These side effects can include dizziness, headache, nausea, and sleepiness. Drinking alcohol can worsen these side effects, making it more difficult to take Xarelto safely.

Benefits of Drinking Alcohol While Taking Xarelto

In some cases, it may be beneficial to drink alcohol while taking Xarelto. Drinking alcohol can reduce the risk of a stroke or blood clot in people with atrial fibrillation. It can also reduce the risk of death in people with coronary artery disease. However, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider before drinking alcohol while taking Xarelto to ensure it is safe for you.

Drinking alcohol can also reduce the risk of bleeding in people taking Xarelto. Studies have shown that drinking alcohol can help to reduce the risk of bleeding in people taking anticoagulants. However, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider before drinking alcohol while taking Xarelto to ensure it is safe for you.

Recommendations for Drinking Alcohol While Taking Xarelto

The American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association recommend that people taking Xarelto should limit their alcohol consumption to no more than two drinks per day. It is also important to speak with your healthcare provider before drinking alcohol while taking Xarelto to ensure it is safe for you.

What to Do If You Have Had Too Much to Drink While Taking Xarelto

If you have had too much to drink while taking Xarelto, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of excessive bleeding can include:

• Bruising easily
• Bleeding from the gums
• Bloody vomit
• Bloody stool
• Heavy menstrual bleeding

Your healthcare provider may need to adjust the dose of Xarelto or prescribe another medication to reduce the risk of bleeding.

Conclusion

It is important to speak with your healthcare provider before drinking alcohol while taking Xarelto to ensure it is safe for you. Alcohol can increase the risk of bleeding, as well as reduce the effectiveness of the drug. However, in some cases, drinking alcohol can reduce the risk of stroke or blood clot in people with atrial fibrillation. If you have had too much to drink while taking Xarelto, it is important to seek medical attention immediately.

Top 6 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can You Drink Alcohol When Taking Xarelto?

Yes, you can drink alcohol while taking Xarelto, but you should do so in moderation. Xarelto is an anticoagulant medication used to reduce the risk of stroke and blood clots in certain people, and it’s important to follow the instructions of your doctor or pharmacist when taking it. Generally, it is recommended that you limit your alcohol intake to no more than 1 or 2 drinks per day, as excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of bleeding or other side effects. Additionally, it is important to be aware that alcohol can also increase the risk of certain side effects of Xarelto, such as dizziness and confusion.

2. What Are the Risks of Drinking Alcohol While Taking Xarelto?

Drinking alcohol while taking Xarelto can increase the risk of side effects, such as dizziness and confusion. Additionally, alcohol may also increase the risk of bleeding, especially if taken in large amounts. As Xarelto is an anticoagulant medication, it is important to be aware that even moderate drinking can increase the risk of bleeding.

3. What Should I Do If I Experience Side Effects While Taking Xarelto and Drinking Alcohol?

If you experience any side effects while taking Xarelto and drinking alcohol, it is important to contact your doctor or healthcare provider as soon as possible. Depending on the severity of the side effects, your doctor or healthcare provider may advise you to reduce or stop drinking alcohol while taking Xarelto.

4. Is It Safe to Drink Alcohol Every Day While Taking Xarelto?

No, it is not recommended to drink alcohol every day while taking Xarelto. Drinking alcohol in moderation is generally considered safe, but excessive alcohol consumption is not. The recommended limit for alcohol consumption while taking Xarelto is no more than 1 or 2 drinks per day.

5. Are There Any Foods I Should Avoid While Taking Xarelto?

Yes, it is important to avoid certain foods while taking Xarelto. Foods that are high in vitamin K, such as spinach, broccoli, and kale, can reduce the effectiveness of Xarelto and should be avoided. Additionally, it is important to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as these can also interfere with the effectiveness of Xarelto.

6. Is It Safe to Take Xarelto and Drink Alcohol At The Same Time?

Yes, it is generally considered safe to take Xarelto and drink alcohol at the same time, but it is important to do so in moderation. The recommended limit for alcohol consumption while taking Xarelto is no more than 1 or 2 drinks per day. It is also important to be aware that drinking alcohol can increase the risk of certain side effects of Xarelto, such as dizziness and confusion, as well as the risk of bleeding.

Alcohol and Blood Thinning Medications / Jennifer Friend, ANP

In conclusion, alcohol consumption is not advised when taking Xarelto. Alcohol can increase the risk of bleeding, as well as interact with other medications. However, if you do choose to consume alcohol, do so in moderation and consult with your doctor for advice. It is important to follow the recommended instructions for taking Xarelto and to always discuss any potential risks with your doctor.