How long after taking a Vicodin pill would it be okay to drink alcohol?
First of all, you are correct in assuming there needs to be a gap in time between the two. Alcohol and hydrocodone, the narcotic in Vicodin, are both central nervous system depressants. The combination of the two results in additive CNS depressant effects (respiratory depression, psychomotor impairment). The combination of the two can also result in increased liver toxicity (your liver processes both as it is; the combination of the two just makes it more difficult). Realistically, give your body time to work through the hydrocodone and acetaminophen first; I’d say at least 4-6 hrs., but ideally just avoiding alcohol for the day is the best bet.
