Alcohol abuse whilst on immunotherapy

I am supporting a family member through melanoma which has spread into pelvis. Due to her having to take methotrexate for rheumatoid arthritis she can only have small amounts of immunotherapy fortnightly. She is going out and consuming large amounts of alcohol fortnightly, to the point she is falling over and hurting herself and having blackouts. Will the amount of alcohol she is consuming affect the immunotherapy working as well as possible? 

  • Hello and thanks for posting

    I'm sorry to read about what's been happening with your relative. This sounds like a very tough time especially with the added stress of  being worried about the impact her alcohol intake may have with her treatment.

    Although it mentions in information leaflets that patients may take small amounts of alcohol a few days after having immunotherapy treatment, it's important to remember that the treatment can have side effects that can be tough on the body to cope with. Adding large amounts of alcohol can stress the liver and can potentially make side effects worse.

    I don't know if your relative's healthcare team are aware of her drinking behaviour. They can't discuss someone's medical care without their permission, but anyone can make a concern known. So you could contact the hospital where your relative is being treated and her GP, to explain your concerns.

    If she would like support in staying sober the NHS website has information on accessing support services that may be of help. They mention the organisation AL-Anon which offer support to people affected by someone else's drinking. 

    I hope this is of some help. Please get back to us if you need any more information or support.  You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline.  The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

    Kind regards,

    Celene