Hangover prevention pills have become a popular option for people who want to avoid headaches, nausea, and other unpleasant symptoms that often follow a night of drinking. But do they actually work? Many of these products are already on the market, each with different mechanisms—some claiming to prevent hangovers entirely, while others aim to treat existing symptoms.
Do Hangover Prevention Pills Work?
The effectiveness of these pills remains questionable. Research is limited, and while a few ingredients show promise in reducing hangover-related symptoms, most commercially available products do not contain enough of them—or any at all.
One of the more promising compounds is Glutathione, which has some scientific evidence supporting its ability to reduce hangover severity. Most supplements today focus on rehydration through electrolytes, replenishing vitamins and minerals lost to alcohol, and sometimes adding herbal extracts to help the body process toxins. A few even include pain relievers like aspirin.
Ultimately, results vary. Some people report relief from these pills, while others find little to no benefit. In many cases, simply drinking water and waiting it out may be just as effective.
Popular Hangover Prevention Pills
Flyby Hangover Prevention & Recovery Pills
A multifunctional supplement combining milk thistle, prickly pear extract, dihydromyricetin (DHM), and N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC). Research suggests DHM may reduce alcohol toxicity and withdrawal symptoms. The formula also includes vitamins and minerals for added support.
- Price: $17.99 (30 capsules)
Drinkwel for Hangovers
A nutrient-replenishing supplement with Reishi mushroom, milk thistle, artichoke leaf, NAC, goji berry, schisandra, acerola, and added vitamins. Designed to support liver function and the immune system while helping the body process toxins.
- Price: $39.99 (30 capsules)
Revil Serious Liver Support & Detox
Focused primarily on liver health, this supplement combines grape seed extract, alpha lipoic acid, resveratrol, artichoke, milk thistle, and more, along with essential vitamins and minerals to counteract alcohol-related stress on the liver.
- Price: $29.99 (90 capsules)
ISDG Turmeric Essence
Uses turmeric extract to protect the liver and potentially ease nausea and headaches. However, dosage details are unclear, making its effectiveness questionable.
- Price: $36.70 (90 capsules, money-back guarantee)
HPF Hangover Prevention Formula
Made with prickly pear extract (Opuntia ficus-indica), which may reduce nausea and dry mouth. Works best when taken before drinking.
- Price: $24.95
Alcaid
Combines prickly pear extract, DHM, NAC, vitamin C, and electrolytes to support the liver, rehydrate, and reduce oxidative damage.
- Price: $22.95
Chaser
A preventative pill meant to be taken with the first drink and throughout the night (up to 8 capsules). Contains calcium, magnesium stearate, and other compounds to support alcohol metabolism.
- Not recommended for people under 21
Hangover Destroyer
A liquid supplement containing DHM, flavonoids, amino acids, antioxidants, and MCT oil to aid absorption. Aims to support liver health and reduce GABA-related alcohol effects.
- Price: $19.50 (5 sachets, Mint or Cinnamon flavor)
Purple Tree Hangover Cure & Prevention Pills
Designed for both prevention and treatment, containing DHM, NAC, willow bark, plus vitamins and minerals.
- Price: $9.95 (24 capsules, one of the cheapest options)
Maximum Strength DHM (Naturebell)
A high-dose Dihydromyricetin (350mg) supplement, gluten-free and dairy-free, supporting detox and reducing hangover severity.
- Price: $18.95 (60 capsules)
Miracoal Hangover Prevention Capsules
Made with coconut charcoal, designed to be taken after drinking to absorb toxins in the digestive tract. While there’s no direct research linking charcoal to hangover relief, it may help eliminate impurities.
- Price: $25.64 (100 capsules)
Are Hangover Pills a Good Idea?
There’s no universal “cure” for hangovers. The effectiveness of these pills depends on their ingredients, the timing of when they’re taken, and the individual’s body. While some formulas show promise, many fall short of scientific backing.
For the best results, a hangover prevention pill should include well-researched ingredients like DHM, NAC, glutathione, and electrolytes. Still, nothing replaces drinking responsibly, eating properly before alcohol consumption, and staying hydrated.
If someone feels the need to rely on these pills regularly, it may point to problematic drinking habits. In such cases, seeking medical guidance or alcohol rehabilitation support may be the best long-term solution.
