Some advice seems implausible

I have to admit I don’t typically read every word of the info sheets that accompany a prescription.

But a line on one page of several that came with a new drug yesterday caught my eye.

“Check with your doctor before drinking alcohol while taking this medicine.”

OK.

“Hello. This is the after-hours answering service for Dr. Smith.”

“Yes. Hi. This is Paul Turner. I’m about to have a beer.”

“Excuse me?”

“The info sheet with my new prescription says I should check with Dr. Smith before drinking alcohol. So I’m calling to report that I am home and about to have a beer.”

“I’m not sure that means…”

“Look, if you would just tell Dr. Smith that I called to check before I began drinking. It must be that I’m supposed to avoid certain skunky brands or something.”