HEALTH: Drugs and Alcohol

BARBITURATES

·         Barbiturates – depressants and sedatives

·         Depressants – drugs that reduce or slow down the activity of the nervous system

·         Sedatives – hypnotic drugs that induces sleep

ALCOHOL

·         Fermented berry juice – first fruit wine

·         Ethyl Alcohol – pure in form and has little odor

·         Methyl Alcohol – made from wood and used in making perfumes

·         Rubbing Alcohol – for medical use

·         Wine – fermentation of fruits

·         Beer – fermentation and brewing of grains

·         Social Drinking – drinking occasionally with others in relaxed, pleasant circumstances

·         Problem drinking – when drinking becomes an individual’s routine in coping with stress

FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE THE ABSORPTION

·         Strength of beverage

·         Number of drinks consumed

·         Speed of consumption

·         Presence of food

·         Body chemistry

·         Gender

1.       Women have more body fat

2.       Women have less water

3.       Alcohol is more quickly absorbed during premenstrual phase

CLASSIFICATION OF ALCOHOL DRINKERS

1.       Abstainers – do not drink/less often than once a year

2.       Infrequent Drinkers – once a month, small amts

3.       Light Drinkers – once a month, medium amts

4.       Moderate-Heavy Drinkers – at least once a week, medium amts

Heavy