Drug interactions
Ethanol + Methadone
Severity: Major
Ethanol and Methadone: major interaction.
Last updated Sources: US FDA label
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Alcohol taken with methadone increases sedation, impairs psychomotor function and raises the risk of respiratory depression and fatal overdose. Chronic heavy alcohol use can also alter methadone metabolism and worsen liver injury.
What this interaction means in plain words
Ethanol and Methadone can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Why it happens
Additive central nervous system and respiratory depression; alcohol may also alter methadone metabolism.
What to do
Advise patients to avoid alcohol during methadone therapy. Monitor for sedation and respiratory depression if alcohol use occurs and consider addiction support.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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References
Other interactions of Methadone
- Alvimopan + Methadone Contraindicated
- Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates + Methadone Contraindicated
- Droperidol + Methadone Contraindicated
- Ibutilide + Methadone Contraindicated
- Isocarboxazid + Methadone Contraindicated
- Lefamulin + Methadone Contraindicated
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Ethanol with Methadone?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Ethanol and Methadone can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Alcohol taken with methadone increases sedation, impairs psychomotor function and raises the risk of respiratory depression and fatal overdose. Chronic heavy alcohol use can also alter methadone metabolism and worsen liver injury.
How serious is the interaction between Ethanol and Methadone?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Advise patients to avoid alcohol during methadone therapy. Monitor for sedation and respiratory depression if alcohol use occurs and consider addiction support.
What other medicines interact with Methadone?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Methadone with, for example, Alvimopan, Calcium / magnesium / potassium / sodium oxybates, Droperidol. The full list is on the Methadone page.
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