Is Alcohol Consumption Safe While On Harvoni Treatment?

Posted on Thu, 3 Mar 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 3 Mar 2016 Answered on

Fri, 13 May 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : i have been taking harvoni for two months and the blood test at one month saw the virus as 'undetectible'. would it be alright to drink alcohol lightly at this point?

Answered by Dr. Naveen Kumar (-3 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Alcohol should preferably be avoided until 12 weeks

Detailed Answer:
Welcome to health care magic, I share your concern and I will try to help you out in best possible way.
Harvoni is usually prescribed for 8-12 weeks, depending on damage of liver. Alcohol in such situation will be a double edged knife, which not only interferes with functioning of the drug Harvoni, it also reduces regenerative capacity of liver by causing more damage. Hence it is advisable until 12 weeks to abstain from alcohol. In addition you should also avoid taking an antacid within 4 hours before or 4 hours after you take Harvoni. This especially includes antacids that contain aluminum or magnesium.
I hope this helps you.
If you have any further query, I would be glad to help you.
If not, you may close the discussion and if possible you may rate the answer for me, so that I get a good feedback.
Dr. Naveen XXXXXXX
Medical Consultant.
Ebix, Inc.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Naveen Kumar