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07/06/2010
Forensic Issues in Blood Alcohol Levels
As a medical expert witness, I am occasionally asked to give an opinion regarding the effects of drugs, including alcohol, on behavior, memory, and physical/biologic consequences of use. The effects of alcohol have been studied in laboratory animals and humans more extensively than all other substances of abuse.
According to “Principles of Addictions and the Law”, it is estimated that in the United States approximately 2/3 of all adults use alcohol occasionally and that more than 12% are heavy drinkers. Medical consequences of heavy alcohol use are extensive and affect every major body system.
Half of all suicides involve use of alcohol and half of all motor vehicle crashes are related to alcohol usage. According to the United States Department of Justice, 30% of all violent crime offenders had been drinking alcohol (most recent year 2002).
The majority of alcohol is absorbed from the small intestine after it is swallowed. On an empty stomach, it takes 15 minutes to feel the effects of alcohol (glass of wine, shot of liquor, or bottle of beer). Food in the stomach will delay alcohol absorption by one hour. It is estimated that one drink increases the blood alcohol level by 0.02%, therefore four drinks in one hour would cause a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% (legal blood level of intoxication for drunk driving).
According to “Drugs of Abuse and Addiction”, the following describes the effects of alcohol consumption on behavior:
1-2 drinks consumed – Beginning of impaired judgment and release of restraints and inhibitions
3-4 drinks consumed – Disruption of judgment; decrease of concern over social constraints; intensification of feelings of exhilaration or warmth; lessening of mental capabilities
5-6 drinks consumed – Reduced reaction time; exaggerated emotions; impaired gait; mood lability; impairment of intellectual functioning
7-8 drinks consumed – Staggering; slurred speech, blurred vision; serious impairment of judgment and coordination
11-15 drinks consumed – Marked intoxication manifested by impairment of all forms of motor and intellectual functioning; loss of control over all inhibitions; stupor and confusion; increase in potential for violent behavior; loss of comprehension of events surrounding the person
16-25 drinks consumed – Failure of brain functions that regulate bodily processes leading to coma and death from respiratory failure
The message is – Don’t underestimate the effects of this very powerful substance of abuse and dependence.