Normally, when the human body breaks down alcohol, one of the byproducts is acetaldehyde. This byproduct is quickly broken down by an enzyme called ALDH2, which moves it along in the cycle. However, if you have Asian flush, this doesn't happen. Instead, acetaldehyde builds up in your system, causing the flushing reaction and other side effects. There are ways for Asian flush prevention, but you need to consider these carefully. Some simply assume that the Asian flush is an allergy to alcohol, and recommend solutions based on this.

The problem with saying that an allergy to alcohol is the same as the Asian flush is that there are some significant differences between the two. If you are assuming that the treatment for an allergy is effective on something that is caused by an enzyme that doesn't work, then you are putting yourself at risk. Furthermore, it is likely that the remedy for the allergy will have no effect on the Asian flush.

So, what do people do?

The most common approach is taking an antacid before drinking any alcohol. This technique means you have to be ‘on the ball’, because you need to take the pill around 30 minutes before you have the alcohol.

This can lead to trouble if you run out of antacids, or if you end up drinking when you hadn't expected to. It also means that you take the pills at the bar or the party before you start drinking. This is really a pretty bad look and it could get you into trouble if the wrong people thing that you are doing drugs.

Despite this, many people find using antacids an effective approach the problem. This is something you have to take with a grain of salt, because it is not an approach that works for everyone. Some people claim that an antacid like Zantac entirely gets rid of the Asian flush, while others say that the effect is barely noticeable.

Likewise, there are many people who say that having alcohol while they are using antacids gives them headaches or makes their hangovers much worse. If this is the case, then antacids are not good for Asian flush prevention for many people. There are other solutions proposed online.

Some of these are good, and can be very effective, while others are nothing more than hype with no substance. You need to carefully consider the qualifications of any remedy before you try it, and work out whether there is any risk involved.