Alcohol Poisoning (Alcohol Overdose)
Definition - Alcohol poisoning is simply a kinder name for a drug overdose. In fact, the term alcohol poisoning is redundant because the drug, ethyl alcohol, is itself a toxic substance. A more accurate name is alcohol overdose.
Cause - The liver detoxifies approximately one-half ounce of alcohol per hour (less in some people, particularly women.) One-half ounce is roughly the amount in a 12 ounce can of domestic beer, one ounce of 100 Proof liquor, or a 5 ounce glass of wine.
If a person drinks at a rate faster than that, alcohol accumulates in the bloodstream, subsequently affecting judgement and coordination and possibly leading to loss of consciousness. If the person has consumed a sufficient quantity, respiration and blood pressure will decrease as heart rate increases.