Alcohol Before PRP? Let’s Talk About It.

If you’re preparing for a Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatment, you may be wondering whether having a glass of wine or a cocktail beforehand makes a difference. The short answer? It’s not a dealbreaker, but it’s also not recommended.

Alcohol has a mild blood-thinning effect, which can increase your risk of bruising or swelling after a PRP procedure. It also dehydrates the body—and that’s where vasopressin comes in.

Vasopressin, also known as antidiuretic hormone (ADH), helps your body regulate water balance by telling the kidneys to retain fluid. When you consume alcohol, it suppresses vasopressin release, leading to increased urination and dehydration. This is why you often feel thirsty (and sometimes sluggish) after drinking. For PRP, dehydration can reduce plasma volume and the overall quality of the platelet concentrate—two factors that directly influence how well your treatment works.

While enjoying a drink the night before won’t cancel your procedure, avoiding alcohol for at least 24 hours before and after your appointment can help minimize swelling, bruising, and dryness while supporting smoother healing.

Since PRP works by concentrating your body’s own platelets and growth factors to stimulate repair and regeneration, your results are always best when your body is in its healthiest, most hydrated state. Staying hydrated, eating nutrient-rich foods, and skipping alcohol for a day or two are simple steps that set you up for optimal outcomes.

Bottom line: You don’t need to panic if you’ve had a drink before your appointment—but for the best results, it’s smart to hold off on alcohol around your PRP treatment. And as always, if you have any doubts or questions, talk with your provider before your procedure.