Long term antibiotics

Hi there rosco58. There is a lot of misconception about drinking alcohol whilst taking antibiotics. Many people think that you should not drink at all when taking antibiotics because there is a belief that it stops them working.

I have been on this kind of therapy in one way or another since the early 1980s. I also took azithromycin from 2007 until 2013. My consultant of twenty years was adamant that it is ok to have a drink when taking them. I am not a regular drinker but never had any adverse effects from a drink or two. Quite frankly, if I am having an exacerbation (infection) alcohol is the last thing that I could get down me.

Having said that- this means 'a drink' not a couple of bottles per night which would not be good for anybody whatever their condition.

There is one major no no. you should never drink or even smell alcohol if you are taking METRONIDAZOLE. This is usually given for for anaerobic infections. Exposure to alcohol whilst taking this drug results in immediate projectile vomiting and falling over.

It is a case of making up your own mind and being sensible I guess.

I do hope that helped.

Hullo Rosco, The advice I am about to give, works well for me (touch wood) but we are all different. last night I was looking through old posts and seeing that I was always having chest infections. As fast as I came off antibs, so another one would start. I was desperate because my husband was poorly. My consultant put me on azithromycin. Since then and touching wood, I have been free of infections. And yes, I appreciate a glass of wine in the evening. Forgot to mention that I have bronchiectasis, asthma and mild COPD. But we are all different. You will need to discuss this question with your GP or nurse. Good luck XX

Hi Rosco, I have Bronchiectasis. I take Azithromycin as well. I have a full blown infection at the moment. I had a strong whisky to knock me out last night. My GP says some ABS you cannot drink alchol but AZ is ok with moderate drinking. Kaye

Hello Rosco I was put on Azi for the same reasons as yourself. I enjoy a glass of wine not every day, about three times a week. I have not had any reaction to it. Since being on it I have not had any infections. Good luck.

Long term ab's are fine and that is what Pete has - either Azith or Doxy. When on Doxy as he is now, it does say not to drink alcohol but Pete has the odd glass of wine here and there and is fine.

Take it easy and breathe well. xxx

Hi rosco, having read the other answers to your question I hope that it has cheered you up and helped you to know that the condition does not have to impact in a grossly negative way on your life and activities. You are,after all,the same person that you were before they gave you that long word. Bronchiectasis doesn't come on overnight and so you have probably been living with it for some time. Now you can establish a good management routine and a healthy lifestyle. You obviously have a good Doctor because azith is an effective treatment.There are quite a few of us on here who have bronchiectasis ( we call ourselves bronchs because we are lazy typers) Many of us have had the condition since we were small children and have led full lives. I'm not saying that it can't be exhausting at times and that we don't get fed up because we do, but we are here for each other. Please feel free to ask us the questions. If we can help we will.

Good luck

A very warm welcome to you rosco.

love x

Not all antibiotics react with alcohol. Read the pamphlet that comes with the tablets.