STOP — Contraindicated
CONTRAINDICATED — extremely dangerous combination
Evidence level: STRONG
Drinking alcohol while on methadone is one of the most common causes of methadone-related death.
Additive CNS and respiratory depression. Alcohol also inhibits methadone metabolism, increasing levels. Leading cause of methadone-related deaths.
Complete alcohol avoidance is essential while on methadone. Even small amounts are dangerous.
Taking Methadone with food can reduce nausea, a common side effect. Alcohol — high-fiber foods can help combat opioid-induced constipation. Avoid grapefruit juice with some opioids (oxycodone, fentanyl) as it can increase blood levels. Never combine opioids with alcohol.
Binge drinking, concurrent benzodiazepines or other sedatives, early methadone treatment
Extreme sedation, respiratory depression, loss of consciousness, death
Emphasize zero alcohol tolerance on methadone. Screen for alcohol use disorder.
Opioid combinations carry serious risks including respiratory depression. Talk to your pain management specialist about non-opioid alternatives: physical therapy, NSAIDs (if appropriate), nerve blocks, or non-sedating supplements like PEA (palmitoylethanolamide) or curcumin for inflammation.
Drinking alcohol while on methadone is one of the most common causes of methadone-related death.
Taking Methadone with food can reduce nausea, a common side effect. Alcohol — high-fiber foods can help combat opioid-induced constipation. Avoid grapefruit juice with some opioids (oxycodone, fentanyl) as it can increase blood levels. Never combine opioids with alcohol.
Extreme sedation, respiratory depression, loss of consciousness, death
Opioid combinations carry serious risks including respiratory depression. Talk to your pain management specialist about non-opioid alternatives: physical therapy, NSAIDs (if appropriate), nerve blocks, or non-sedating supplements like PEA (palmitoylethanolamide) or curcumin for inflammation.
Emphasize zero alcohol tolerance on methadone. Screen for alcohol use disorder.
Or browse the full interaction database (121,000+ pairs).