Font Size
A
A
A

Alcohol Effects in Nonalcoholic Adults

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


Medically Reviewed by Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD

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



Women's Health

Find out what women really need.

Are You Depressed? Take the Quiz


Read What Your Physician is Reading on eMedicine

Toxicity, Ethanol »

Ethanol is a 2-carbon–chain alcohol; the chemical formula is CH2 CH3 OH.

Read More on eMedicine »

Medical Dictionary