Alcohol
Alcohol: An organic substance formed when a hydroxyl group is substituted for a hydrogen atom in a hydrocarbon. The type of alcohol used in alcoholic beverages, ethanol, derives from fermenting sugar with yeast. After alcohol is ingested, the body converts it to sugar-based fuel. Alcohol acts as a central nervous system depressant, and it may be part of solutions used as preservatives, antiseptics, or medications.
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- Alcohol abuse
Alcohol abuse: Use of alcoholic beverages to excess, either on individual occasions (binge drinking) or as a regular practice. For some individuals, children or pregnant women, for example, almost any amount of alcohol use may be legally considered ‘alcohol abuse.’ Heavy alcohol abuse can cause physical damage and death.
- Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institute
Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, National Institute of: One of the National Institutes of Health, NIAAA’s mission is to “conduct research focused on improving the treatment and prevention of alcoholism and alcohol-related problems to reduce the enormous health, social, and economic consequences of this disease.”
- Alcohol poisoning
Alcohol poisoning: A condition in which a toxic amount of alcohol has been consumed, usually in a short period of time. The affected individual may become extremely disoriented, unresponsive, or unconscious, with shallow breathing. Because alcohol poisoning can be deadly, emergency treatment is necessary.
- Alcoholics Anonymous
Alcoholics Anonymous: A free self-help organization founded to assist people addicted to alcohol in breaking old behavior patterns and gaining support for consistently living a sober lifestyle.
- Alcohol, pregnancy
Alcohol, pregnancy: The consumption of alcohol during pregnancy carries the danger of damaging the fetus.