Why no alcohol after colonoscopy?

Answer 1

Colonoscopies and the preparations for them remove much of the mucous that protects the intestinal tract. Without it, alcohol (which kills unprotected cell tissue) will burn the inside of your intestines.

Answer 2

The main reason to avoid alcohol following a colonoscopy is because you were given intravenous sedation and pain medication during the procedure. This is also the reason why you are not allowed to drive yourself home after the procedure.

The two medications normally given are 1) a narcotic analgesic (painkiller) - usually Demerol (meperidine) or Sublimaze (fentanyl) and 2) a benzodiazepine (sedative/hypnotic) - usually Versed (midazolam) or Valium (diazepam).

One should NEVER mix alcohol with narcotics or benzodiazepines. Doing so may cause severe reactions including death.

Incidentally, I had a colonoscopy today and asked the same question before I left the Gastroenterologist's office.

Answer 3

Two reasons.

1. Alcohol thins the blood, therefore making any small scrape from the microscope bleed, depending on where the endoscopy was, this could possibly lead to heavy internal bleeding.

2. After an endoscopy(of the throat) the skin is raw and will need time to heal, alcohol would simply burn the lining of your throat.

Answer 4

Because alcohol thins the blood and would make any rupture or tear in the colon more serious.

Answer 5

Alcohol shouldn't be consumed a few days before before or after the procedure because alcohol thins the blood which could create problems if an injury and bleeding occurs.

Answer 6

That is an issue that should be discussed with your doctor. We do not provide medical advice.