1. Alcohol is absorbed in the stomach and the small intestine. Oxidation – the liver breaking down alcohol into water and carbon dioxide. The liver breaks down alcohol at a rate of ½ ounce of pure ethanol per hour (or 1 drink an hour) Cirrhosis – hardening of the liver.

2. CAUSES OF A HANGOVER 1. Toxic effects of congeners – ingredients in alcoholic beverages other than the alcohol. 2. Dehydration 3. Formaldehyde – forms when the body breaks down alcohol.

3. FETAL ALCOHOL SYNDROME Birth defects caused by a mother drinking alcohol during her pregnancy.

4. REHABILITATION Detoxification – physical form of rehabilitation (like Insight). AA – Alcoholics Anonymous – a support group for the alcoholic. (Mental form of rehab) AL-ANON – a support group for family and friends of the alcoholic. ALA-TEEN – a support group for children or friends of alcoholics.

5. DUI – driving under the influence. <.08 DWI – driving while intoxicated. >/=.08