Student Handbook

Effects of Alcohol in Varying Quantities

Gender, body size and type, fatigue, recent illness, food content in stomach, altitude, age, and use of other drugs and/or medications will alter the effects of alcohol.

Blood Alcohol
Content		 Effects
.02 Light or moderate drinkers feel some effect, usually warmth and relaxation.
.04 Most people feel relaxed, talkative, happy; the skin may flush. Fine motor coordination will be affected.
.05 Recognizable changes occur, with lightheadedness, giddiness, lowered inhibitions and less control of thoughts. Restraint and judgment are lessened and coordination may be slightly altered. Driving is significantly more dangerous and best avoided. DWI convictions occur at this level at judge's discretion.
.06 Judgment is somewhat impaired and normal ability to make rational decisions about personal capabilities is affected, as in driving.
.08 Muscle coordination is impaired and reaction time is slower. There is sensory numbness in the face and lips. Hands, arms and legs may tingle, then feel numb. Legally intoxicated for DWI.
.10 A clear deterioration of reaction time and  muscle control is present. Speech will be fuzzy and a general clumsiness will appear.
.15 Balance and movement are dangerously impaired and all faculties are affected. Most people become ill from alcohol at this BAC.
.20 Motor and emotional control are measurably affected. Slurred  speech, staggering, loss of balance and double vision are present. Most people blackout at this level of intoxication.
.30 Lack of understanding of what is seen or heard. Confusion, stupor, loss of consciousness.
.40 Usually unconscious, skin clammy. Lethal dose for 50 percent of the population.
.50 Lethal dose for 75 percent of the population.

For the chart above, people who have built a high tolerance will not necessarily experience the symptoms noted.  This does not mean you are any less intoxicated.  However, a high tolerance is a sign of other problems.

For more information, contact the Class of 1998 Center for Alcohol and Other Drug Education Resource Center at 781.891.2777 or stop by the Center for Health & Wellness in Rhodes Hall.