Alcohol
(booze, drink)
Alcohol is the most commonly used recreational drug in the world, despite its legal status, it can be harmful if used in excess.
Effects | Dosage | Advice | Support
Effects
The effects of alcohol will take around 15-30 minutes to kick in and will last around 1.5 to 3 hours.
- Relaxation
- Sociability
- Slurred speech and lack of coordination
- Impulsivity/increased risk taking
- Nausea/vomiting
- Emotional volatility (sadness, aggressiveness, etc.)
- Blackouts and memory loss
Dosage
The dose required to achieve your desired effect will vary depending on a number of factors including gender, weight and tolerance, amongst others. The following guidance is from the NHS:
- Both women and men should not exceed 14 units per week on a regular basis.
- Drinking should be spread over 3 or more days if you regularly drink as much as 14 units per week.
- Try to have several alcohol-free days each week.
Harm Reduction Advice
- Eat a filling meal before drinking and make sure you’re well hydrated before, during and after.
- Mixing drugs, including alcohol, can be risky. Click here for more information on drug combinations.
- If someone collapses or becomes unresponsive, seek immediate medical attention. You will not get in trouble for doing this. Click here to read up on drug-read up on drug-related emergencies.
- You can become physically dependent on alcohol, this means if you use too regularly, it can be dangerous to stop.
- The signs of dependence to look out for are an increase in tolerance, using most days or every day, feeling anxious, sweaty, experiencing the shakes, or having seizures when you don’t drink. If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t stop cold turkey, contact us and/or your GP for support.
- Excessive drinking can cause a wide range of illnesses including cirrhosis of the liver and various cancers. If you feel like your drinking is getting out of control, seek assistance from your GP or BDP.
- You’re likely to feel depleted after drinking. Hydrate, eat something nutritious and rest. Click here for more information on taking care of yourself after a session.
- If you’re out and about, make sure you and your mates have a safe way to get home, definitely don’t drive.
Click here to learn more about spotting the signs of a alcohol overdose, and what to do.
Access Support
Worried about your alcohol use?
The Drop is BDP’s one stop shop for support, advice and resources around party drugs.
