Can you have an alcohol drink after first chemo pax session

Hello Gurl

Thanks for getting in touch. My name’s Michael, one of the Cancer Information Nurse Specialists on the Macmillan Support Line.

I am sorry to hear that you have been experiencing severe stress and anxiety leading up to your first chemotherapy.

Feeling stressed or anxious are normal emotions if you are dealing with cancer. If you feel your anxiety is getting worse, speak to your GP, your specialist nurse, a psychologist or counsellor.

They can help you find ways of coping with it. Some people with anxiety also have depression. Speaking to your healthcare team is the best way to get the help you need.

You may find it helpful to contact Anxiety UK. You may also find that it helps to join a support group. We have more information on talking therapies.

Drinking alcohol during chemotherapy partly depends on the type of drugs you are having. 

Generally, a little alcohol won't affect most types of chemotherapy, but we would always advise that you check with your healthcare team first, as some chemotherapy drugs interact with alcohol and could make you unwell.

I hope you find this information helpful. Please don’t hesitate to get back in touch.

You can always give us a call. You can talk to one of our nurses on the support line. It’s a free phone number on 0808 808 0000 and we are here 7 days a week, 8am-8pm or email us. 

Best Wishes

Michael

Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

Ref: MH/Khe