Introduction
The drug Zostex contains the active ingredient Brivudine and is used in the treatment of shingles. This is a disease caused by the herpes zoster virus and can lead to severe pain and blisters on the skin. As an antiviral medication, Zostex prevents the herpes virus from multiplying and can thus support the healing process.
But is it safe to drink alcohol during Zostex use? The answer is twofold: The Zostex manufacturer’s package insert does not advise against alcohol consumption, suggesting that no serious interactions between Brivudine and alcohol are to be expected. However, it is strongly discouraged to drink alcohol while taking Zostex, as alcohol can have an adverse effect on the development of shingles. Alcohol strains the body and, according to several studies, even weakens the immune system, which, however, is busy fighting the herpes viruses in the case of “shingles“. The consumption of alcohol can make the pain worse and also prolong the course despite medication!
Should I wait a certain amount of time after the last dose?
As already mentioned, there is no clear contraindication to the consumption of alcohol while taking Zostexe. The medication itself is taken once a day, if possible always at the same time for seven days. It is advisable to completely abstain from alcohol during this time in order not to additionally weaken the immune system and to let shingles heal as quickly and efficiently as possible. It is therefore recommended to consume alcohol at the earliest 24 hours after the last dose of Zostexe and only if there are no symptoms. However, a longer interval is certainly recommended to avoid possible relapses.
Interaction
No interactions are expected between Zostex and alcohol. However, the consumption of alcohol can lead to a prolonged course of disease despite adequate medication. Caution is advised when taking other medications in addition to Zostex, such as the painkiller ibuprofen. There are strong interactions between many pain medications and alcohol, ranging from an increased alcohol intoxication to liver damage! This is another incentive to avoid alcohol during shingles.
