Can I drink alcohol while taking nitrofurantoin?

The consumption of alcohol while taking nitrofurantoin may worsen any side effects, says Medline Plus. According to Mayo Clinic, side effects of nitrofurantoin include chest pain, chills, itching, headache, fever, drowsiness and cough. Seek a professional opinion before consuming alcohol to avoid any unnecessary health risks.

Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic that is used to cure bacterial infections such as a urinary tract infection. According to WebMd, nitrofurantoin works by killing the growth of bacteria. This medication will not work to cure any type of viral infection like the common cold. As with most antibiotics, excess use can lead to decreased effectiveness in bacterial treatments.