Alcohol is a drug with uses, side effects and the potential for dependency. When combined with other medications it can reduce the effectiveness of some and potentiate, or increase the effects, of others. Some medicines that may have dangerous interactions with alcohol include drugs used to treat cardiovascular disease, digestive disorders, diabetes, anxiety and depression. Alcohol causes drowsiness and its use is prohibited while driving.
Physiological Actions
When taken internally, alcohol is quickly absorbed into the bloodstream. A central nervous system depressant, alcohol affects neurotransmitters that carry messages between nerve cells in the brain. The result is relaxation, uncoordinated muscle movement and poor impulse control, effects which increase with higher doses.
Uses
Alcohol has pharmacological uses as a disinfectant, a medium and preservative for other substances, and as an ingredient in cough syrups and liquid cold remedies. Moderate drinking has been linked to decreased cardiovascular disease. Italian researchers have found protective factors against atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, decreased fatty deposits in blood vessels and increased blood flow linked to the consumption of red wine. However, chronic alcohol abuse and binge drinking are associated with an increased risk of heart disease.
Warning
Drinking too much alcohol too fast is associated with short-term amnesia, also known as blackouts, which can occur in inexperienced as well as seasoned drinkers. Alcohol effects women differently than men, according to The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, because men's bodies eliminate alcohol faster. Women therefore are at greater risk of alcohol-related health problems when their consumption patterns are equal to those of men. In pregnant women, alcohol crosses the placenta and may cause serious harm to the unborn baby, including growth retardation and brain damage.
Long-Term Side Effects
Over time, heavy drinking damages the liver's ability to perform functions such as protein metabolism, hormone regulation and the maintenance of blood components. Fatty liver disease, alcoholic hepatitis, cirrhosis of the liver and liver failure can occur after years of heavy drinking. High blood pressure, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, heart failure, heart attack and stroke are other possible health complications of alcoholism. The American Cancer Society reports that chronic alcohol abuse is also associated with the development of oral, throat, breast and liver cancers.
Prevention/Solution
Many of the health problems associated with alcohol dependency can be reversed if a person stops drinking in time. A disease of intense cravings, tolerance and withdrawal symptoms, alcoholism can be treated. Long-term sobriety is possible with the help of supportive social programs such as Alcoholics Anonymous and professional counseling. Medical management of detoxification may be necessary to prevent dehydration or seizures from severe alcohol withdrawal.
