Can I take Alcohol and Atorvastatin together?

It is generally advised to limit your alcohol intake while taking atorvastatin as it increases the risk of liver problems and a rare but serious muscle condition called rhabdomyolysis.

Avoid binge drinking. If you have a history of liver disease, you should discuss your alcohol consumption with your doctor.

Why this happens

Both atorvastatin and alcohol are processed by the liver. Alcohol can put extra strain on the liver, making it harder for the organ to process the medication.

Additionally, both substances can independently cause muscle damage; when combined in large amounts, this effect can be worsened.

How to know if you're having a drug interaction

You may be experiencing an interaction between alcohol and atorvastatin if:

• You feel unusually tired, weak, or unwell.

• You develop muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness.

• You experience nausea, vomiting, or abdominal discomfort.

• You notice yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice).

• Blood tests show raised liver enzymes.

• Symptoms appear after drinking alcohol regularly or in large amounts while taking atorvastatin.

What you should do

If you have any of the above symptoms, you should:

• Speak to your GP or pharmacist for advice as soon as possible.

• Do not stop taking atorvastatin suddenly unless advised by a healthcare professional.

• Reduce or avoid alcohol until you have been medically reviewed.

• Seek urgent medical help if you develop severe muscle pain, dark urine, or yellowing of the skin or eyes.

• Attend any blood tests arranged to check liver function or muscle health.

Important precautions

Pregnancy

You must not take atorvastatin if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as it may harm the developing baby. Use effective contraception while taking this medicine.

Liver disease or heavy alcohol use

Combining atorvastatin with regular heavy alcohol consumption significantly increases your risk of serious liver damage. Seek medical advice if you have a history of liver disease.

Muscle disorders (myopathy) - atorvastatin

You must report any unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness to your doctor immediately, as this can rarely lead to serious kidney damage. This risk is higher if you drink large amounts of alcohol.

Food and drink warnings

Grapefruit juice

Grapefruit juice can increase the level of atorvastatin in your blood, which may increase the risk of side effects like muscle pain or damage. Avoid drinking large amounts (more than 1.2 litres daily), though a small glass is usually fine.

Alcohol

Drinking large amounts of alcohol while taking atorvastatin can increase the risk of liver problems. It is best to keep your alcohol intake within the recommended limits.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.