Alcohol Effects
Alcohol is a depressant of the central nervous system and can produce a wide range of effects on an individual. Its use can result in emotional instability, reduced inhibitions, impaired co-ordination and judgement, disorientation and mental confusion. Some people can become violent and aggressive whilst others exhibit symptoms of drowsiness and sedation. As intoxication becomes more advanced the impairment of nervous system functions become more severe.
In general the effects of alcohol on the central nervous system are proportional to its concentration in the blood. The effects however are more marked when the blood alcohol level is rising and when alcohol is rapidly consumed. General health, tiredness and the presence of other drugs may exacerbate the effects of alcohol.
It is not possible to predict what effect a particular concentration of alcohol would produce in a particular individual. Regular heavy drinkers would be expected to develop some tolerance to the effects of alcohol whereas a young or naive drinker may be less tolerant - seek guidance on the potential effects of alcohol at various blood concentrations.
