Warfarin gave me alcohol intolerance

[Dg800]

I hade an aortic valve replacement in 2019. Been on Warfarin since then, and not able to drink any form of alcohol. I get face/chest flush, face swell, hives all over my body and in every way a Disulfiram-like effect.

Has anyone had the same? Really took away some of my life quality. I want to be able to enjoy a beer or a glass of wine sometimes.

I tried to fina answer to this and my theory is that Warfarin interfere with the enzyme ALDH2, like Disulfiram does. I think Warfarin inhibit ALDH2. That can also cause some other things to be aware of, like an increased risk for throut cancer, IF i am right. Does anyone else know if Warfarin can cause ALDH2 defficiency?

Is there any cure? Is it reversible if you stop Warfarin?

[Hidden]

No-oo, but I went completely off red wine when they put me on rivaroxaban. This may just be a function of ageing, though. When I mentioned it to the consultant, he roared with laughter and said he hadn't come across that particular side-effect before. But it's worth checking with your haematology team next time you go in for a blood sample, just in case it's something reversible. It may be Just One Of Those Things, and you'll have to stay sober from now on.

[Donnac70]

That’s all you need especially if you enjoy the odd tipple here and there. I have taken warfarin for 13 years now and haven’t had any reaction to alcohol during this time. It may be worth asking your GP/haematology for some further testing just to rule out any other allergies. Good luck, I hope you get this resolved.

[Smarticus]

Hi, as others have said I've been on Warfarin since 2018 with no issues. Perhaps you need to build up a tolerance to it If you are not dealing with a Metal valve ask your GP/Consultant to try you on rivaroxaban? HTH