Can you take aspirin after COVID vaccine? Here's what you can and cannot do post-vax

Wondering, "Can you take aspirin after COVID vaccine?" You're not the only one.

There's been a lot of confusion over whether you can take Tylenol or Advil after COVID vaccine shots in the US. In fact, there's been a lot of confusion over the COVID vaccine shots, full stop. Can the COVID vaccine delay your period? Will you need a vaccine passport to travel once you've been jabbed? 

We're all anxious to be one step closer toward normalcy, whatever that may look like. But what does that entail, exactly? We'll walk you through common COVID-related questions—like if you can take over-the-counter meds after your shot or if you're allowed to toast being fully vaccinated with a cocktail. However, remember to always consult a doctor if you have questions.

Can you take aspirin after COVID vaccine?

Are you stressed about getting a sore arm or experiencing flu-like symptoms following your vaccination? You're certainly not the only one. Many people are wondering "Can you take aspirin after COVID vaccine?" and Googling if it's acceptable to take prescription drugs like Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Advil (ibuprofen) after their jab, just in case. 

There's good news for the concerned: the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says taking over-the-counter meds is acceptable, as long as there isn't a condition under normal circumstances that would prevent you from doing so. While Tylenol or Advil is considered acceptable, you'll want to consult with a doctor or a pharmacist about taking any type of medication after you receive your shot. 

Be prepared before you go into your vax appointment: the CDC recommends that you do not take over-the-counter drugs—including ibuprofen, acetaminophen, aspirin, or antihistamines—before receiving your shot. It's unclear how over-the-counter medications will interact with the vaccine and affect its potency. (We do appreciate your efforts for being ahead of the curve, though!)

Can you take prescriptions after the COVID vaccine?

Prescription medications should not be an issue after the COVID vaccine, according to the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases. The foundation revealed that the "vast majority" of prescription drugs will not alter the vaccine's capabilities. 

However, there are a few exceptions. People need to be cautious of the prescription drugs that affect the immune system, including cancer chemotherapies or drugs for autoimmune diseases, as they can potentially clash with your vax. 

All in all, before taking any type of medication after your shot, you're always advised to speak to a medical professional. 

Is it safe to drink alcohol after COVID vaccine?

You might feel that a vaccine shot is worthy of a celebratory cocktail, but you definitely need to keep in mind what you're putting in your system.

Moderate drinking (no more than two drinks per day for men, and a maximum of one drink per day for women) is acceptable, but heavy drinking will likely alter the vaccine's effectiveness, per The New York Times.

Quantity is of the utmost importance. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism has provided the following information on a standard drink: 12 fluid ounces of regular beer, 8 to 9 fluid ounces of malt liquor, 5 fluid ounces of table wine, and 1.5 fluid ounces of distilled spirits. So nix the idea of those novelty glasses in Las Vegas that are the size of your head!

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Can I donate blood after COVID vaccine?

Good news for those who are looking to give back: the American Red Cross states that people are permitted to donate blood, platelets, and AB Elite plasma after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.

However, there are precautions that volunteers need to take. The name of the vaccine must be provided upon arrival to donations, and there could possibly be a deferral time depending on the vaccine.

Can I smoke after COVID vaccine?

Although smoking (tobacco or marijuana) does not appear to affect the vaccine's potency, NPR reports that studies have shown that smoking has been linked to worse COVID-19 conditions. So puff responsibly.

Does the COVID vaccine affect birth control pills?

"While recent studies have shown transient menstrual cycle changes after vaccination, there is no evidence that the vaccine impacts the efficacy of prescribed forms of birth control," Dr. Charis Chambers, the Period Doctor, tells My Imperfect Life. "If someone is using cycle tracking as their form of birth control, however, this can certainly be affected."

Dr. Brian Kaminski, ProMedica's coronavirus expert, confirmed that those on birth control should receive the vaccine unless there is another factor that could potentially affect them.

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Can I have sex after COVID vaccine?

"There is also no evidence that sexual activity needs to be avoided or delayed following vaccination," Dr. Charis Chambers tells My Imperfect Life. "Even so, since some people may note mild post-vaccination symptoms like myalgia, fatigue, headache, or low-grade fever, sex may not be high on their priority list."

To learn more about the vaccine and what is acceptable to do once you've been fully vaccinated, visit the CDC website.