Can You Take Gabapentin with Alcohol?
Last reviewed: · Source: US FDA drug label database
Avoid — gabapentin and alcohol both depress the CNS, and together significantly increase sedation and overdose risk.
Is it safe to take Gabapentin with Alcohol?
Gabapentin and alcohol are both CNS depressants and their combination has been flagged as a growing public health concern. Both increase sedation, impair coordination and judgment, and can suppress breathing. UK data shows gabapentin-related deaths frequently involve co-ingestion of alcohol. The two drugs do not need to be taken at the same time for there to be risk — taking gabapentin with residual alcohol in your system is also dangerous.
How do Gabapentin and Alcohol interact?
Gabapentin modulates alpha-2-delta subunits of voltage-gated calcium channels, reducing CNS excitability. Alcohol enhances GABA-A receptor function. Together, they produce additive CNS and respiratory depression. Gabapentin is also absorbed more rapidly in the gut when combined with some food and substances, potentially causing faster, higher peak levels.
Data sourced from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) drug label database: OpenFDA gabapentin drug label — CNS depressant and alcohol warning.
Who should be careful?
Everyone on gabapentin. Extra risk for: respiratory conditions, elderly patients, those also on opioids, and those with a history of alcohol misuse.
What if I've already taken Gabapentin and Alcohol?
If very drowsy or breathing slowly, call 999. Do not leave the person alone.
Not sure if this combination is safe for your specific situation?
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drink alcohol on gabapentin?
No. Both are CNS depressants and together increase sedation and respiratory depression risk. UK safety data has linked gabapentin-alcohol combinations to overdose deaths.
Can gabapentin and alcohol cause an overdose?
Yes. The combination has been implicated in numerous overdose deaths in the UK. Neither drug alone may cause overdose at a given dose, but together they can be fatal.
How long after gabapentin can I drink?
Gabapentin has a half-life of 5-7 hours. Wait at least 24 hours after your last dose before drinking. Discuss alcohol use with your prescribing doctor.
Does gabapentin make you more drunk?
Yes — gabapentin can amplify alcohol's sedative effects, making you feel more intoxicated than the amount of alcohol would normally cause, which increases the risk of accidents and overdose.