If you’ve started dutasteride for hair loss or prostate health, you might wonder whether a glass of wine or a beer is okay. The short answer: most people can drink in moderation, but there are a few things to watch. Alcohol doesn’t cancel the medicine, but it can make some side effects feel stronger or show up sooner. Below we break down what happens when you mix the two and give you simple tips to stay safe.
Dutasteride works by lowering the hormone DHT, which helps shrink an enlarged prostate and slows hair loss. Alcohol, on the other hand, can irritate the liver and affect hormone balance. When you drink, your liver gets busy processing the alcohol, so it has less capacity to handle the dutasteride. This can lead to higher blood levels of the drug, which might increase the chance of dizziness, low blood pressure, or fatigue.
Another point to note is that both dutasteride and alcohol can cause sexual side effects. Some users report reduced libido or erectile problems with the medication, and alcohol can worsen those issues, especially if you’ve had a few drinks. You’re not guaranteed to have problems, but if you notice any change after drinking, it’s worth cutting back.
1. Keep it moderate: Aim for no more than one standard drink per day for women and two for men. A standard drink is about 12 oz of beer, 5 oz of wine, or 1.5 oz of spirits.
2. Stay hydrated: Alcohol dries you out, which can make side effects like headache or dizziness feel worse. Drink a glass of water between alcoholic beverages.
3. Eat before you drink: Food slows alcohol absorption, giving your liver a better chance to process both substances without overloading.
4. Listen to your body: If you feel unusually light‑headed, fatigued, or notice any new sexual issues after a night out, consider cutting back or skipping alcohol while you’re on dutasteride.
5. Talk to your doctor: Everyone’s health is different. If you have liver disease, a history of prostate issues, or take other medications, your doctor may suggest stricter limits or even avoid alcohol altogether.
Bottom line: You don’t have to give up social drinking entirely, but be smart about it. Moderate alcohol, stay hydrated, and watch how your body reacts. If anything feels off, pause the drinks and check in with your healthcare provider. That way you can keep the benefits of dutasteride while still enjoying a responsible night out.
Can you drink on dutasteride? Get clear, UK-focused guidance on risks, safe limits, side effects, combos like tamsulosin, and what to do if you overdo it.
read more
