Cephalosporin and alcohol, one is an antibiotic widely used in clinical practice, and the other is a common drink in people's daily life. Whether these two seemingly unrelated substances will have a chemical reaction under certain conditions has always been a matter of concern. This article will focus on the pairing of cephalosporin with alcohol, whether there can be a chemical reaction between them, what the possible results are if so, and how to save yourself.
Chemical properties and effects of cephalosporin with alcohol
Cephalosporin is a -lactam antibiotic with broad-spectrum antibacterial effect and good inhibitory effect on a variety of bacteria. Alcohol, or ethanol, is an organic compound that is widely used in beverages, chemicals, medical and other fields. Ethanol can be metabolized into acetaldehyde and acetic acid in the human body, which in turn can be broken down into water and carbon dioxide.
Whether cephalosporin and alcohol can react chemically under certain conditions
According to existing research, cephalosporin can react with alcohol under certain conditions. This reaction is mainly manifested as a disulfiram-like reaction, that is, cephalosporin and alcohol are metabolized in the body to produce acetaldehyde, and acetaldehyde and cephalosporin have a chemical reaction, resulting in cephalosporin failure and even the production of toxic substances. The occurrence of disulfiram-like reactions is related to the chemical structure of cephalosporins and the concentration of alcohol.
Possible consequences of the reaction
After the disulfiram-like reaction between cephalosporin and alcohol, it may cause cephalosporin to become ineffective and affect the ** effect. In addition, the toxic substances produced may have adverse effects on the human body, such as headache, nausea, vomiting, heart palpitations, etc. In severe cases, it can lead to shock, acute heart failure, and even death.
Scientific basis
1.Mechanism of disulfiram-like reactions
The mechanism of the disulfiram-like reaction is mainly the chemical reaction between acetaldehyde and cephalosporin, resulting in cephalosporin failure. Acetaldehyde is a toxic substance that can have adverse effects on the human body. It has been found that the -lactam ring in cephalosporins is susceptible to acetaldehyde attack, resulting in a ring-opening reaction, resulting in cephalosporin failure.
2.Interaction of cephalosporin with alcohol
Studies have shown that the interaction between cephalosporin and alcohol may lead to an increase in the metabolism of cephalosporin in the body, thereby increasing the toxicity of cephalosporin***In addition, alcohol can affect the metabolism of cephalosporin in the liver, further aggravating the toxicity of cephalosporin***
Practical advice
1.When considering the combination of cephalosporin with alcohol, the following health and safety considerations should be noted:
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking cephalosporin to reduce the risk of disulfiram-like reactions.
While taking cephalosporin, avoid medications and skincare products that contain alcohol.
Wait at least 72 hours before drinking alcohol after stopping cephalosporin to ensure that cephalosporin is completely metabolized out of the body.
2.How to save yourself when a disulfiram-like reaction occurs:
Stop drinking alcohol immediately and avoid continuing to consume alcohol.
See your doctor as soon as possible and tell your doctor that you're taking a cephalosporin and have an adverse reaction.
Maintain bed rest and avoid strenuous exercise.
If you have severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, shock, etc., call emergency services immediately**.
The combination of cephalosporin and alcohol is not nothing, but an issue that needs to be paid attention to. When considering the pairing, it is important to note the chemistry and action of cephalosporin with alcohol, as well as the disulfiram-like reaction that may occur. Follow the science and pay attention to health and safety issues to ensure that it is safe to drink alcohol while taking cephalosporin. If you have any adverse reactions, please seek medical attention in time to ensure your own safety.