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Real members of MyParkinsonsTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

I enjoy a cocktail once in awhile and am curious what your experiences have been. I will ask my doc but would like a real world perspective

A MyParkinsonsTeam Member asked a question 💭
Rawlins, WY
January 17
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A MyParkinsonsTeam Member

It depends on which medications you are on. Read the information you get with your pills. IIRC, carbidopa-levodopa didn't have an alcohol warning. Some of the other pills my husband has tried had definite warnings against mixing alcohol with the meds. My husband had mostly stopped drinking before he started PD meds because he wanted to keep his head as clear as possible. He was getting a bit fuzzy before diagnosis.

January 17 (edited)
MyParkinsonsTeam

What are your experiences with enjoying an occasional cocktail while managing Parkinson's?

Many people with Parkinson's have mixed experiences with alcohol. Some find they can enjoy an occasional drink without issues, while others notice it affects their symptoms or medication effectiveness.

Common experiences from Show Full Answer

What are your experiences with enjoying an occasional cocktail while managing Parkinson's?

Many people with Parkinson's have mixed experiences with alcohol. Some find they can enjoy an occasional drink without issues, while others notice it affects their symptoms or medication effectiveness.

Common experiences from MyParkinsonsTeam members include:

- Some notice their medications stop working as well when they drink
- Others have been advised by doctors to avoid alcohol entirely with their meds
- Many have reduced their drinking from what they used to enjoy
- Some experience worse side effects when mixing alcohol with [[treatment:levodopa/carbidopa:55d534f51fcaa397470006dd]]

One member shared: "I miss my red wine and whiskey on occasion. I found that it just makes my meds stop working." Another said: "I have to limit myself to one Scotch on the rocks now. I used to have three or four, but the side effects are too bad."

Important considerations:

The type of drink may matter - some research suggests liquor might have different effects than wine. Also, alcohol can worsen medication side effects, particularly with [[treatment:levodopa/carbidopa:55d534f51fcaa397470006dd]], which is why many neurologists recommend limiting or avoiding it.

It's really about listening to your body and being honest with your doctor about your habits. Some people find alcohol-free alternatives work well for them. The key is finding what works safely for your specific situation.

January 17

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