Alcohol is probably the most abused drug in the non-muslim world and has found a place in just about every aspect of society from religious ceremonies to after work pubs. Sadly, it has become an accepted drink for socializing but it is still a toxic substance to the body as the effects gained are due to poisoning.

Cost

The price of alcohol is dependent on market factors, it can range from a few dollars to thousands depending on brand and environment consumed within.

Street Names

Wine, beer, lager, cider, sherry, martini, gin, vodka, whisky, 'drink', 'booze'. There are more brand and variations of alcohol then any other drug.

Methods of Consumption

Usually in liquid form although it can be added to just about any food from chocolate to fine recipes.

Consequences & Associated Risks

Alcohol ingestion results in health consequences due to vitamin and mineral leaching from the body (leading to poor nutritional absorption), it also has been blamed for a number of social problems due to its ability to lower inhibitions and common sense. Alcoholism refers to a disease that is characterized by abnormal alcohol seeking behavior that leads to impaired control over drinking.

Alcohol mixed with other drugs whether prescription or recreational often leads to deadly consequences due to their combined reaction. Long term heavy use (alcoholism) may lead to organ damage (liver, stomach, heart..), obesity, central nervous system damage, impotence, increase in cancer risk, memory loss, mood swings and changes in personality.

Effects

Everybody has a different tolerance to alcohol, genetics, past history of consumption and method of consumption (straight of with food) all play a role in how much an effect alcohol has on a person. Alcohol has the effect of slowing down the nervous system, from slowing down reaction times to interfering with the bodies processes. People who have taken alcohol may experience dizziness, distorted vision and hearing, altered perception of reality, bad breath, loss of concentration, feelings of warmth and happiness with light to moderate use. Heavier use may lead to vomiting, collapse (loss of consciousness) and even death due to poisoning.

Benefits

The benefits of alcohol are still hotly contested, wine is thought to play a role in decreasing the risk of certain diseases but it is most likely the anti-oxidant contents of the grapes more then the alcohol itself that is the benefactor. Alcohols are widely used in industry and science as reagents, fuels and solvents due to its relatively low toxicity.

Once its effects dissipate, how do you feel?

Most people get a hangover which is caused by dehydration as alcohol acts like a diuretic. You may also have continued impairement (although greatly reduced) for a few days. In men, it has been noted that testosterone levels decrease for up to 72 hours.