Most allergy medicines and alcohol do not mix well. Sedating antihistamines (like diphenhydramine/Benadryl) and alcohol should never be combined. Non-sedating antihistamines (cetirizine, loratadine, fexofenadine) are generally safer but may still cause extra drowsiness in some people. Nasal sprays and inhalers usually do not interact with alcohol. If you have asthma, severe allergies, or mix multiple medications, talk to an allergist before drinking.

Can you mix allergy meds and alcohol? (Quick answer)

Most people should be cautious when combining allergy medicine and alcohol. Sedating antihistamines and alcohol both slow the central nervous system. Even “non-drowsy” medicines can interact differently depending on your body, dose, and alcohol tolerance.

If you rely on daily allergy medication—or if alcohol worsens your symptoms—it’s safer to avoid drinking or check with a board-certified allergist first. You can speak with one through HeyAllergy’s online telemedicine visits.

Deep Guide: Understanding allergy meds + alcohol safety

1. Which allergy meds are dangerous with alcohol?

Sedating antihistamines (most dangerous combination)

These include:

• Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
• Chlorpheniramine
• Hydroxyzine

Why they’re unsafe:
Both alcohol and these medications slow your nervous system. When combined, the sedative effects multiply.

Risks include:

• Extreme drowsiness
• Poor coordination
• Confusion
• Slow reaction times
• Accidents and falls
• Dangerous respiratory depression (rare but serious)

If you take these meds for sleep or severe allergies, avoid alcohol completely.

2. Are “non-drowsy” antihistamines safer with alcohol?

Second-generation antihistamines

• Cetirizine (Zyrtec)
• Loratadine (Claritin)
• Fexofenadine (Allegra)
• Levocetirizine (Xyzal)

These medications are less sedating and are the most commonly recommended for allergic rhinitis.

Are they safe with alcohol?
Generally, moderate alcohol intake may be tolerated for many adults, but reactions vary.

Some people experience:

• Mild increased drowsiness
• Slower reaction time
• Dry mouth
• Light-headedness

Rule of thumb:
If it’s your first time taking a new allergy medication, avoid alcohol entirely until you see how your body responds.

3. What about nasal sprays and inhalers?

Nasal steroid sprays (no major alcohol interactions)

• Fluticasone
• Mometasone
• Budesonide

These work locally in the nose. Alcohol does not affect their action.

Asthma inhalers (generally safe, but caution)

• Albuterol
• Inhaled steroids
• Combination inhalers

Alcohol itself may trigger:

• Flushing
• Wheezing
• Cough

If alcohol worsens your asthma, reduce intake and speak with an allergist.

4. Alcohol can worsen allergies — even without meds

Alcohol can trigger allergy-like symptoms because it:

• Increases blood flow (causing flushing)
• Contains histamine (especially red wine and beer)
• Contains sulfites
• May dry the nasal passages

Some people experience:

• Runny nose
• Nasal congestion
• Itchy eyes
• Cough
• Wheezing

If drinking consistently worsens your symptoms, consider evaluation or allergy testing.

5. Combination medications: higher risk

Many people take more than one medication, which increases interaction risk.

Higher-risk combinations

• Allergy meds + sleep aids
• Allergy meds + anxiety medications
• Allergy meds + muscle relaxers
• Allergy meds + pain medications
• Allergy meds + alcohol + fatigue/dehydration

These mixtures can significantly worsen sedation.

6. A simple comparison table: Allergy meds + alcohol safety

When should you see an allergist?

See a HeyAllergy specialist if you notice any of the following:

• Alcohol + allergy meds make you unusually sleepy
• You take daily antihistamines but still have symptoms
• Alcohol triggers coughing or wheezing
• You rely on Benadryl often
• You experience year-round allergies
• You want to reduce or stop allergy medication altogether

A board-certified allergist can evaluate triggers, recommend safer medications, or start long-term relief like allergy drops (SLIT).

7. Long-term solution instead of mixing meds: Allergy Drops (SLIT)

Daily pills help symptoms, but they do not treat the underlying allergy.
Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT), also known as allergy drops, retrains your immune system over time.

Benefits include:

• Less dependence on pills
• No injections
• Easy to use at home
• Strong safety profile (supported by AAAAI practice guidelines)
• Long-lasting improvement

Learn more about HeyAllergy’s custom HeyPak® SLIT programs here:
👉 Allergy Drops (SLIT)

What to Do Next

If you're unsure whether your allergy meds are safe with alcohol, or if your symptoms aren't controlled, here’s what to do next:

• Book an online appointment with a Board-Certified Allergist
• Explore long-term treatment with custom allergy drops (SLIT)
• Learn how HeyAllergy’s telemedicine allergy care works

FAQs

1. Can I drink alcohol while taking Benadryl?
‍No. Benadryl is sedating, and alcohol increases sedation. The combination is unsafe due to risks of extreme drowsiness, confusion, and slowed breathing.

2. Is it safe to drink alcohol with Claritin or Zyrtec?
‍Generally safer, but some people still experience drowsiness. Start by avoiding alcohol until you know how the medication affects you.

3. Does alcohol make allergies worse?
‍Yes. Alcohol contains histamines and sulfites, which may worsen nasal congestion, sneezing, or flushing.

4. Can alcohol trigger asthma symptoms?
‍In some people, yes. Alcohol can cause airway irritation or reflux, which may worsen asthma.

5. Are allergy drops (SLIT) safe if I drink alcohol?
‍SLIT has no known alcohol interactions. It is safe and supported by AAAAI/ACAAI guidelines.

6. Should I stop allergy medicine if I want to drink?
‍Do not stop medication without speaking to a clinician. Instead, choose safer non-sedating options or book a telehealth visit for guidance.

Get Expert Allergy Care Today

If you’re unsure which allergy meds are safe with alcohol—or if you’re tired of relying on daily pills—our board-certified allergists can help.
Book your online visit today: Schedule Your Online Allergy Consultation.

Or explore long-term relief with Allergy Drops (SLIT).

Author, Review & Disclaimer

Author: Krikor Manoukian, MD, FAAAI, FACAAI — Board-Certified Allergist/Immunologist
Bio: Dr. Manoukian is a board-certified allergist/immunologist specializing in telemedicine-enabled allergy care and personalized SLIT programs. He leads HeyAllergy’s clinical team and trains providers in safe immunotherapy.
Medical Review: HeyAllergy Clinical Team (Board-Certified Allergists/Immunologists)
Disclaimer: This article is educational and not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult your clinician about your medications and treatment options.

References

• AAAAI. Antidepressants and Allergy Shots (Ask the Expert).
• AAAAI/ACAAI. Sublingual Immunotherapy Practice Parameter Update (2017).
• NIH/NIAID — Allergic Rhinitis Overview.
• CDC — Medication Safety Guidance.