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May 22, 2012
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Alcohol Effects in Nonalcoholic Adults

Medical Reviewer: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD

Blood Ethanol (Alcohol) Concentration (mg/dL) Impairment
20-50 Impaired fine motor function
50-10 Impaired judgment and coordination
100-150 Difficulty walking and balance
150-200 Lethargy
300 Coma
400 Respiratory depression
500 Potential Death

These are estimates. The doctor may modify depending on the individual.

Reference: Birnbaumer, Bessen. Alcohols and Glycols. In: Rosen et al, eds. Emergency Medicine - Concepts and Clinical Practice, 3rd ed. St. Louis: Mosby; 1990:2520.

Consumer e-Tools are not intended to provide professional advice or recommend particular products. Physicians and healthcare professionals should exercise their own clinical judgment when assessing the results of our tools or calculators. Consumers should consult a doctor for advice when assessing the results.


Last Editorial Review: 1/8/2008


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Alcohol Effects in Nonalcoholic Adults

Alcoholism Overview

Alcohol problems vary in severity from mild to life threatening and affect the individual, the person's family, and society in numerous adverse ways. Despite all of the focus on drugs such as cocaine, alcohol remains the number one drug problem in the United States. According to community surveys, over 13% of adults in the United States will experience alcohol abuse or dependence (also referred to as alcoholism) at some point in their lives.

Withdrawal, for those physically dependent on alcohol, is much more dangerous than withdrawal from heroin or other narcotic drugs.

  • Alcohol abuse refers to excessive or problematic use with one or more of the following:

    • Failure to fulfill major obligations at work, school, or home

    • Recurrent use in situations where it is hazardous (such as driving a car or operating machinery)

    • Legal problems

    • Contin...


Read the Alcoholism article »


Read What Your Physician is Reading on Medscape

Toxicity, Ethanol »

Ethanol is a 2-carbon–chain alcohol; the chemical formula isCH2 CH3 OH.

Read More on Medscape Reference »

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