What are the Acute Effects of Ethanol Consumption?
The acute effects of ethanol consumption vary depending on the dose and individual susceptibility. At lower doses, ethanol acts as a central nervous system depressant, causing relaxation and euphoria. Higher doses can result in impaired motor coordination, slurred speech, and cognitive dysfunction. Extremely high levels can lead to acute alcohol poisoning, characterized by symptoms such as confusion, vomiting, seizures, respiratory depression, and potentially fatal outcomes.
