Alcohol

Can I drink alcohol while taking warfarin? - a very common question!

It is generally accepted that drinking large amounts of alcohol can increase the effect of warfarin.

For this reason warfarin patients should avoid excessive alcohol intake and be aware that getting drunk, and binge drinking in particular, could lead to a dangerous increase in their INR and higher risk of bleeding.

Studies do suggest, however, that it is not necessary to avoid alcohol completely if you are taking Warfarin.  By practising the warfarin users’ mantra of ‘moderation and consistency’, alcohol can still be enjoyed safely in small quantities.  Keep within current guidelines and don’t exceed 2 units of alcohol in any one day.  Being consistent and having a small amount of alcohol on a fairly regular basis is definitely preferable to occasionally drinking large quantities.