How Does Alcohol Affect MS?

By Crystal Hoshaw – Published on January 23, 2026
Medically Reviewed by Barbara S. Giesser, MD, FAAN, FANA, Dipl. ABLM

Note: While research on alcohol is evolving, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says drinking less or not at all is better for your health.

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease of the central nervous system that can lead to physical and cognitive symptoms throughout the body. Since alcohol affects the central nervous system, it’s important to know how alcohol can impact the symptoms and progression of MS. 

Read on to understand the immediate and long-term effects of alcohol on multiple sclerosis, plus whether it’s safe for you to drink when you live with MS.

Immediate Effects of Alcohol on MS

Alcohol can temporarily worsen the nerve signaling problems already caused by MS, says Carrie Hersh, DO, staff neurologist at the Mellen Program for MS at Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health in Las Vegas.

Dr. Hersh also points out that both MS and alcohol affect the cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls coordination, along with the eye muscles. [1]

This can lead to increased symptoms, like:

• Balance issues
• Fatigue
• Brain fog and slowed thinking
• Dizziness
• Slurred speech
• Blurred vision
• Tremors

This overlap of symptoms can increase the risk of falls, confusion, or feeling unsteady. 

“Alcohol may make these symptoms more noticeable,” says Hersh. “These effects usually wear off, but they can interfere with safety and daily functioning while they’re present.”

However, alcohol’s effect on people with MS may vary widely from person to person, depending on their symptom pattern and disease stage.

“Because MS affects multiple areas of the nervous system, alcohol’s effects can be unpredictable and vary from day to day,” says Hersh. “Even small amounts may have a bigger impact than in people without MS.”

Long-Term Effects of Alcohol on MS Progression

When it comes to the long-term effects of alcohol on MS progression, the research is mixed. [2]

“Most current studies show no clear evidence that alcohol speeds up MS progression or disability, but they also don’t prove that it is helpful,” says Hersh. She notes that many studies find a “neutral” effect, meaning light or moderate drinking doesn’t seem to change the overall course of MS for most people. 

However, Hersh emphasizes that heavy drinking can worsen general health, increase fall risk, and interfere with medications, which may indirectly affect MS over time. Diseases related to MS, like cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, and even mental health conditions, can be worsened by heavy alcohol consumption. [3] [4] [5]

Additionally, differing drinking patterns aren’t always reflected in the research. “Research findings can vary depending on whether studies look at light, moderate, or heavy drinkers, because these groups often have very different health behaviors,” Hersh adds. 

Because research results vary, experts like Hersh still recommend caution.

Can You Drink Safely When You Have MS?

According to Hersh and the National MS Society, most neurologists agree that people with MS can drink safely in moderation, as long as they understand how alcohol affects their individual symptoms. [6]

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