HomeAnswersCosmetologyhiv testingWill consuming liquor affect HIV test result?

Will consuming liquor affect HIV test result?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. K. Shobana

Published At April 16, 2018
Reviewed AtJune 28, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I want to ask that I drank some liquor (two bottles of beer) 11 hours before taking HIV test. My result was negative. It was ELISA test. Can I be conclusive of my result? Should I test again? Will consuming liquor affect HIV test result? Please help me.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Consumption of alcohol will not affect the test result for HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). However, HIV has a window period of one to three months during which the test result can be a false negative. The result can be considered conclusive if done after 12 weeks of the last suspected exposure. I hope this helps. Thank you.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

Now I feel better.

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Please make sure that you repeat the test by ELISA (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay) at 12 weeks after the last possible exposure. Alcohol, prior intake of medicines, fever or other common infections do not affect the test result. Thank you.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor,

I tested for HIV at 11 months after exposure. Can this result be considered? If there is any alcohol content while testing, will it affect?

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

11 months is well beyond the window period. According to WHO (world health organization), all results 12 weeks after the exposure can be taken as final. In your case, there is no need to panic at all. Your report can be considered conclusive and you can be sure that you have not acquired HIV. Alcohol will not affect the test result as the method employs detection of antibodies which is independent of other factors. You can rest your fears and go ahead confidently. There is no need for any further testing. I hope this helps. Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Rakesh Kumar Bahunuthula
Dr. Rakesh Kumar Bahunuthula

Dermatology

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Read answers about:

hiv testingelisa test

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Cosmetology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy