It is generally not recommended to drink alcohol while taking gabapentin. Both gabapentin and alcohol are central nervous system (CNS) depressants, and combining them can amplify effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, impaired coordination, and increased risk of serious side effects like slowed breathing and heart rate. This combination can also increase the risk of overdose and other dangerous health consequences. If alcohol is consumed, it is advised to wait until gabapentin has cleared from the body, which takes about 25-35 hours after the last dose, or better yet, consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
Some sources mention that while it may be possible to drink alcohol with gabapentin, it often increases drowsiness and the risk of accidents, so caution is needed especially during the initial days of treatment. However, the consensus strongly favors avoiding alcohol while on gabapentin to prevent potentially severe side effects and health risks.
