Alcohol is the most commonly-used drug in the world and can be bought legally in Britain by people over 18.
Small amounts of alcohol can have a beneficial health effect. But people are often surprised to learn that alcohol is a depressant.
At first drinking alcohol can make you feel relaxed, happy, and excited. Later it can lead to feelings of sadness, depression or even suicidal thoughts. In many people it leads to increased aggression.
When you drink alcohol, the drug goes from the stomach and intestines through the liver, which passes it into the bloodstream. The liver can only process about one unit of alcohol an hour (say, half a pint of normal beer or a small glass of wine) - although a lot depends on gender, body size, general health and if you are taking any medicines or other drugs.
Alcohol can cause slurred speech, blurred vision, stumbling and clumsiness. It switches off part of the brain, which can damage your ability to make proper decisions. Some people find it makes them fall asleep and are sick, which is dangerous because you can choke on your own vomit.
Have a look at the rest of this section to see how you can enjoy alcohol without endangering yourself and others.
Alcohol information card.pdf