Paxlovid and Alcohol: What You Need to Know

In December 2019, Wuhan, China, saw the first cases of an unusual pneumonia-like illness that didn't respond to standard treatments. This marked the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, a global crisis that reshaped daily life through lockdowns, social distancing, mask mandates, and heightened hygiene practices.

As uncertainty grew, many turned to alcohol to cope with stress. With the arrival of Paxlovid, a common question emerged: Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking this medication? This article examines the interactions between Paxlovid, alcohol, and their effects on the liver and kidneys.

Paxlovid to the Rescue

Paxlovid became known as a groundbreaking treatment for COVID-19. While not a cure, it significantly reduced symptoms, allowing many patients to recover at home with less severe illness.

How Does Paxlovid Work?

Paxlovid combines two medications—nirmatrelvir and ritonavir. Nirmatrelvir inhibits a key enzyme to stop the virus from replicating, while ritonavir slows the breakdown of nirmatrelvir in the liver, extending its effectiveness.

Who Is Paxlovid For?

Paxlovid is intended for individuals at high risk of severe COVID-19. Surprisingly, about 75% of U.S. adults have at least one risk factor, such as:

• Age 50 or older (especially over 65)
• Chronic conditions like cancer, diabetes, or heart disease
• Overweight or obesity
• Pregnancy
• Weakened immune system
• Mental health disorders
• Not being vaccinated or up-to-date on COVID vaccines
• Certain disabilities

The CDC also notes that living conditions, workplace exposure, and healthcare access can influence risk.

Can You Drink Alcohol While Taking Paxlovid?

Mixing alcohol with Paxlovid is not recommended. Here’s why:

1. Side Effects of Paxlovid and Alcohol

• Increased blood pressure: Alcohol can raise heart rate and blood pressure, which may be dangerous when combined with Paxlovid, especially for those with heart conditions.
• Gastrointestinal problems: Paxlovid can cause stomach pain, nausea, or diarrhea. Alcohol may worsen these symptoms.
• Dehydration: Both COVID-19 and alcohol can lead to dehydration. Alcohol acts as a diuretic, increasing fluid loss.
• Muscle aches: Alcohol can cause muscle soreness, compounding a known side effect of Paxlovid.
• Altered sense of taste: COVID-19 and Paxlovid may affect taste. Alcohol can further dull taste buds, making food less appealing.
• General malaise: Alcohol can intensify feelings of unwellness, similar to a hangover.

2. Paxlovid, Alcohol, Liver, and Kidneys

Paxlovid is processed by the kidneys but can strain the liver in people with existing liver conditions. The FDA advises watching for signs of liver issues like loss of appetite, jaundice, dark urine, itchy skin, or stomach pain. Alcohol adds to this burden by competing for metabolism in the liver and is linked to kidney disease with heavy use.

3. Alcohol, Immunity, and Lung Health

• Inflammation: Alcohol can cause chronic inflammation by disrupting gut bacteria.
• Weakened immunity: Drinking impairs the immune system, making it harder to fight infections.
• Lung damage: Alcohol can harm the lungs' lining, increasing vulnerability to respiratory illnesses like COVID-19 and worsening asthma.
• Slower recovery: Alcohol introduces toxins that can delay healing.

4. COVID: The "Long" Story

Long COVID involves prolonged symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and depression. Alcohol can worsen these:

• Depressant effects: Alcohol may deepen feelings of depression.
• Mental fog: Drinking impairs cognitive function, exacerbating brain fog.
• Fatigue: Alcohol disrupts sleep, leading to increased tiredness.

COVID, Paxlovid, and Alcohol: The Bigger Picture

The pandemic influenced drinking habits due to stress, isolation, and increased home delivery of alcohol. Studies show a 3% rise in alcohol sales during the first year—the largest increase in 50 years. Alcohol-related hospitalizations and deaths also climbed, with a 38% increase in alcohol-related fatalities, especially among adults aged 25-44.

Staying Safe When Recovering From COVID and Beyond

• Avoid mixing Paxlovid and alcohol: Skip alcohol during treatment to prevent complications.
• Nourish your body: Eat simple, easy-to-digest meals like the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast).
• Stay hydrated: Sip water or electrolyte drinks, especially if nauseous.
• Rethink drinking long-term: Reducing alcohol can improve sleep, heart and liver health, metabolism, and immunity.

Remember, you’re not alone. Connect with others who understand your experience through the Quitemate 24/7 Forum—sharing the journey can make it more rewarding.

A New Chapter

The pandemic prompted many to reevaluate their habits. If alcohol is one of them, use this opportunity to build a healthier relationship with it—for a happier, COVID-free future.