It is generally advised to avoid drinking alcohol while taking beta blockers because both alcohol and beta blockers lower blood pressure. Drinking alcohol can cause your blood pressure to fluctuate and sometimes drop too low (hypotension), which can lead to dizziness, fainting, rapid heartbeat, nausea, and other side effects. A small amount of alcohol, such as a glass or two of red wine in moderation, may be relatively safe for some people, but heavy or regular drinking can interfere with the effectiveness of the medication and increase risks. Different beta blockers may interact differently with alcohol, and the effects can also depend on individual health conditions. For example, alcohol can cause extended-release beta blockers like metoprolol to release more quickly in your body, increasing side effects. It is important to talk to a healthcare professional about drinking alcohol while on beta blockers, and if alcohol is consumed, it should be in moderation, spaced out, and never on an empty stomach. In summary, moderate alcohol consumption may be safe in some cases, but drinking alcohol while on beta blockers can cause significant health risks and is usually not recommended without medical advice.
