Alcohol Interactions with Drug TherapyEthanol, ethyl alcohol or simply alcohol is an organic substance with one or more hydroxyl groups (-OH ) [1]. For example, it is used as a pharmaceutical compound, in alcoholic beverages, as a dehydrating agent in laboratories and industries or as an antiseptic agent. Generally, ethanol is a CNS (central nervous system) depressant with anesthetic properties causing cognitive and motor damage at relatively low doses. However, ethanol in large doses can cause anesthetic effects, loss of sensory activity, nausea, vomiting, hypothermia and loss of consciousness. Certain drugs have the potential to interact with alcohol and affect blood levels, metabolism, absorption, distribution, excretion and modify collateral effects[2]. Furthermore, the duration of regular consumption and the quantity ingested could modify the effect of alcohol on drug metabolism [2]. A pharmacodynamic interaction between alcohol and drugs can interfere with the normal site of action of drugs by competition, by modification of receptors, of neurotransmitters. or effectors. For example, the harmful effects of a sedative or antidepressant may increase with the interaction between drugs and ethanol. Pharmacokinetic interaction also occurs with changes in the absorption, distribution, metabolism, or elimination (ADME) of a drug by alcohol [3]. Alcohol can accelerate gastric emptying and alter the biotransformation of drugs or their excretion [4]. The processing of alcohol can have toxic effects and occurs in the liver, and involves two main enzymes. First, alcohol dehydrogenase which metabolizes alcohol to acetaldehyde, which is toxic and carcinogenic, second, aldeh...... middle of paper ......, suggesting possible harmful pharmacokinetic interactions. In summary, there are mechanisms by which alcohol and drug treatment can interact, producing different pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic changes. Some medications may have their effects potentiated by alcohol, while others may have inhibited effects. However, not all of these interactions have clinical significance or impact on a particular individual. The literature data are not complete but the importance of alcohol in potentiating the effects of antidepressants, antipsychotics and sedatives is widely observed. The interaction of ethanol with drug therapy increases the risk of intestinal bleeding in people using aspirin and/or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. To avoid complications which can be serious, it is important to inform the doctor of alcohol consumption before taking any medication..