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A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Falkirk, UK

This started a long time before my fibro was diagnosed but i cannot consume any type of alcohol without getting crippling migraines and feeling seriously ill. Now i used to drink and could consume huge amounts of alcohol without any problem, now i cant even drink the smallest amount of any type beer spirit or wine without falling really ill. I was just wondering if anybody had a similar issue.

March 17, 2018
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Answer Summary

Members shared widely varied experiences with alcohol consumption after developing fibromyalgia, with many reporting they can no longer... Read more

Members shared widely varied experiences with alcohol consumption after developing fibromyalgia, with many reporting they can no longer tolerate even small amounts without severe migraines, illness, or next-day pain flares, even when this intolerance began before diagnosis or medication use. Several members highlighted practical concerns about mixing alcohol with common fibromyalgia medications like Lyrica, tramadol, antidepressants, and acetaminophen, noting risks ranging from increased side effects to liver damage, while others mentioned that alcohol temporarily relieves pain by affecting the central nervous system, though this creates a dangerous temptation toward dependency. A recurring theme was the social isolation that comes with not drinking, as many members described losing friendships centered around pubs and parties, but ultimately finding peace in smaller, more genuine social circles and accepting that prioritizing health over social expectations is worth the trade-off.

A MyFibroTeam Member

Medication Interactions Another problem with drinking alcohol when you have FM or ME/CFS is that has negative interactions with many medications you may be taking. Alcohol increases the effects of Lyrica, tramadol and opioids like hydrocodone and oxycodone, which could increase side effects or worse, could result in an overdose. Drinking alcohol while taking antidepressants, including Savella and Cymbalta, increases your risk of liver damage. Since alcohol is a depressant, it also counteracts the antidepressant effects of the medication. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or any medication containing acetaminophen should not be mixed with alcohol due to a significantly increased risk of liver damage. Note: Vicodin, Lortab, Percocet and many over-the-counter cold and allergy medications all contain acetaminophen.

March 17, 2018
A MyFibroTeam Member

@A MyFibroTeam Member thankyou, have a lovely relaxing Sunday i hope you are flare and pain free. Just to add i found holding onto the past is just baggage you dont need.

March 18, 2018
A MyFibroTeam Member

im the exact same, i used to love going out for a drink but now i just cant stand it, feel so bad after it

March 17, 2018
A MyFibroTeam Member

In the UK there are quite a few medications that come with a warning not to drink alcohol.

Even so, after a little research on Google for that particular med, I have had a drink or two while on meds with this warning and had no adverse affects.

I think it really comes down to information regarding that drug and common sense. At the end of the day, it's down to you and if you do drink while on meds and it makes you ill, you hopefully don't do it again, if you do and it makes you ill again, it's your own fault! . 😊

March 20, 2018
A MyFibroTeam Member

@A MyFibroTeam Member, you now have genuine friends who dont need alcohol for a reason to socialise. That is true friendship, i had loads of mates a large social circle but when i stopped drinking and concentrated on my family they flaked, every activity was centered around the local pub and i wasnt interested, i have a small tight knit group of friends who i trust and thats enough for me.

March 17, 2018

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