Moderate alcohol consumption is generally considered safe with statins. Statins are a type of medication that helps lower cholesterol levels in the blood, while moderate alcohol consumption has been associated with a reduced risk of heart disease [2]. However, excessive alcohol consumption can increase triglyceride levels and contribute to liver damage, which may counteract the benefits of statins [3].
According to Drug Patent Watch [1], there are no known interactions between alcohol and statins. However, it is important to note that alcohol can affect how the liver metabolizes statins, potentially leading to increased side effects. Therefore, it is recommended to limit alcohol consumption while taking statins [2].
The Harvard Health Publishing article [2] suggests that moderate alcohol consumption may actually enhance the benefits of statins by improving HDL cholesterol levels. Moderate alcohol consumption is defined as up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men. However, it is important to note that excessive alcohol consumption can increase triglyceride levels and contribute to liver damage, which may counteract the benefits of statins.
The UpToDate article [3] recommends that patients with hypertriglyceridemia limit alcohol consumption to no more than one drink per day for women and no more than two drinks per day for men. This is because alcohol can increase triglyceride levels and contribute to liver damage, which can worsen hypertriglyceridemia.
In conclusion, moderate alcohol consumption is generally considered safe with statins. However, excessive alcohol consumption can counteract the benefits of statins and contribute to liver damage. It is recommended to limit alcohol consumption while taking statins, and patients with hypertriglyceridemia should limit alcohol consumption to no more than one drink per day for women and no more than two drinks per day for men.
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/ALCOHOL
[2] https://www.health.harvard.edu/newsletter_article/do-alcohol-and-statins-mix
[3] https://www.uptodate.com/contents/hypertriglyceridemia-in-adults-management