Medications to Avoid During a Hangover
When dealing with a headache and body aches, reaching for a painkiller is a common impulse. However, not all over-the-counter (OTC) medications are safe to take with alcohol still in your system.
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
The most critical medication to avoid is acetaminophen, commonly found in brands like Tylenol. The combination of alcohol and acetaminophen can be toxic to your liver, potentially causing serious damage. Your liver is already working overtime to process the alcohol, and adding acetaminophen significantly increases the workload and stress on the organ. It is imperative to wait until all alcohol has been cleared from your system before taking any medication containing acetaminophen.
NSAIDs (Aspirin, Ibuprofen, Naproxen)
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), and naproxen (Aleve) are generally considered safer alternatives for headaches and body aches than acetaminophen. However, they come with their own set of risks, especially for a stomach already irritated by alcohol.
- Stomach Irritation: Both alcohol and NSAIDs can irritate the lining of your stomach and increase stomach acid. Taking them together can worsen nausea, indigestion, and potentially lead to stomach bleeding.
- Moderation is Key: If you must take an NSAID, use it sparingly and always take it with food to help protect your stomach lining.
Foods and Drinks to Avoid
While a hearty, greasy breakfast is a classic—and largely debunked—remedy, certain foods and beverages can actually make you feel worse.
Greasy and Fatty Foods
The myth that greasy foods like burgers and fries will 'soak up' the alcohol is completely false. In reality, these heavy, high-fat meals are difficult for your already sensitive digestive system to process, which can intensify nausea and stomach discomfort. Instead of providing relief, they add more stress to your body during its recovery period.
Sugary and Acidic Foods
Excessive sugar can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes, potentially worsening fatigue and headaches. Acidic foods, like orange juice or spicy dishes, can further irritate a stomach lining that is already inflamed from alcohol consumption. It is best to stick to bland, easy-to-digest carbohydrates like toast or crackers.
Caffeine and More Alcohol
- Coffee: Many reach for a strong cup of coffee to combat fatigue, but caffeine is a diuretic, just like alcohol. This can compound your dehydration and potentially worsen your headache. While a small cup might be acceptable for regular coffee drinkers to avoid withdrawal headaches, a large dose can be detrimental.
- "Hair of the Dog" (More Alcohol): The idea that more alcohol can cure a hangover is a dangerous and widely debunked myth. While it may provide temporary relief by numbing symptoms, it only delays the inevitable and prolongs your body's recovery process. Drinking more alcohol increases your body's toxicity and is not a safe solution.
Comparison Table: What to Avoid vs. What to Take
| Remedy Category | What to Avoid | Why You Should Avoid It | Safer Alternative(s) | Why the Alternative is Better |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Painkillers | Acetaminophen | Can cause liver damage when combined with alcohol. | NSAIDs (in moderation with food) | Can relieve pain but with less risk to the liver; should be taken cautiously with food. |
| Greasy Food | Heavy, fatty foods like fries | Hard to digest and can increase nausea. | Bland carbohydrates (toast, crackers) | Gentle on the stomach and helps stabilize blood sugar. |
| Morning Drink | More alcohol ("hair of the dog") | Delays recovery, prolongs symptoms, and increases toxicity. | Water, electrolyte drinks, or broth | Rehydrates the body and replaces lost minerals. |
| Caffeinated Drinks | Large doses of coffee/caffeine | Worsens dehydration and can increase blood pressure. | Small amount of coffee (if needed) or tea | Provides a mild boost without extreme dehydrating effects. |
| Acidic Foods | Citrus fruits, spicy foods | Can irritate an already sensitive stomach lining. | Bananas, watermelon | Easy to digest and helps replenish electrolytes. |
Conclusion
Understanding what you should not take for a hangover is crucial for a safer and faster recovery. The impulse to reach for quick fixes like acetaminophen, more alcohol, or a large, greasy breakfast is understandable but ultimately counterproductive and potentially harmful. The best approach is to support your body's natural detoxification process with hydration, rest, and bland, nutritious food. Time is the only guaranteed cure for a hangover. By avoiding these pitfalls, you can mitigate your misery and help your body return to normal function without adding further stress or damage. For serious or persistent symptoms, or if alcohol use becomes a recurring issue, it is always wise to consult a healthcare provider. For more on the science behind hangovers, see research from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism.
