Alcohol (ethanol) poisoning (overdose)
About Alcohol (ethanol) poisoning (overdose)
An extreme alteration in thinking, behavior and/or consciousness caused by the consumption of alcohol (ethanol).Typically causes impulsive and uninhibited behavior. Alcohol affects people differently. A particular amount may only make one person act drunk, while be very dangerous to another person possibly causing depressed breathing, coma, or death.
Symptoms
Confusion, slurred speech, vomiting, breathing problems, incoordination, emotional instability, coma, death.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed along with other tests, which usually include: ethanol (alcohol) level, liver function tests, and electrolytes.
Common tests: Complete blood count (CBC), Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), Lipase.
Prescription medications
- Dolasetron
- Levodopa and Carbidopa
- Ondansetron
- Granisetron
- Aprepitant
- Ondansetron Injection
- Nabilone
- Dronabinol
- Granisetron Transdermal
- Palonosetron Injection
- Chlorpromazine
- Lorazepam
- Prochlorperazine
- Perphenazine
- Haloperidol
- Promethazine
- Scopolamine Patch
- Trimethobenzamide
- Hydroxyzine
- Alprazolam
- Chlordiazepoxide
- Diazepam
Conventional treatment summary
Therapy is aimed at supporting vital signs and preventing self-harm. Treatment may include: intravenous fluids, breathing and vital sign support, medications for vomiting, sedatives (benzodiazepines) and antipsychotics. For more information and help call your local poison center at 1-800-222-1222. Alcohol and Drug Helpline: (800)821-4357 Al-Anon (888)425-2666Medical specialties
Medical Toxicology
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Alcohol (ethanol) poisoning (overdose).