Question:
Dear doctor, I accidentally drank three cans of beer a day after getting a tetanus shot because I stepped on a rusty nail. Will this affect the effectiveness of the vaccine? How long should I wait before drinking beer again? I would appreciate your advice.
Anonymous question
Answer:
Hello,
Currently, there is no recorded interaction between drinking beer and the tetanus vaccine when administered by injection. However, consuming beer may interact with other medications used to treat the wound caused by the nail. You should monitor for symptoms such as fever, hives (new itchy rashes), difficulty breathing, abdominal pain, fainting, and swelling or pain at the wound site.
You may consume beer in moderation—up to 330ml/day—after completing all prescribed medications, once the wound has healed, and if you have no underlying chronic conditions.
For more detailed advice, you can visit hospitals within the Vinmec Healthcare System.
Thank you for submitting your question to Vinmec Healthcare System.
Sincerely,
Dr. Tran Ngoc Thuy Hang
Specialist Level I in Emergency Medicine
Emergency and Intensive Care Department – Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital.
