Alcohol affects people differently, and risk generally increases as the amount consumed increases. If you choose to drink, understanding standard drink sizes, using lower-risk strategies, avoiding dangerous substance combinations, and recognizing signs of alcohol overdose can help reduce harm.
Be Aware of the Effects of Alcohol
- Beer: 12 ounces
- Wine: 5 ounces
- Hard Alcohol: 1.5 ounces
- Hydrate
- Don’t drink on an empty stomach
- Measure drinks using the standard drink size
- Avoid drinking games
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is blood alcohol concentration (BAC)?
Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is the amount of alcohol in a person’s bloodstream. BAC is affected by factors including how much and how quickly a person drinks, body composition, food intake, and individual metabolism.
What is considered "a drink"?
In the United States, one standard drink contains about 14 grams of pure alcohol. That is approximately:
- 12 ounces of regular beer at 5% alcohol
- 5 ounces of wine at 12% alcohol
- 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits at 40% alcohol
Actual beverages may contain more than one standard drink depending on size and alcohol concentration.
How do I stay safe while drinking?
If you choose to drink, you can reduce risk by:
- Drinking less
- Eating before or while drinking
- Keeping track of what you consume
- Alternating with nonalcoholic beverages
- Avoiding drinking games
- Making a plan for transportation
Avoid combining alcohol with other drugs or medications unless a health professional has told you the combination is safe. If you take medication, ask a prescriber or pharmacist about alcohol interactions.
Understanding Alcohol Poisoning
At some point during your time at the University of Oregon, you may find yourself caring for a friend who has had too much to drink. It is important for you to recognize the symptoms of alcohol poisoning so that you get your friend medical attention immediately.
Oregon’s Medical Amnesty Law and UO’s Responsible Action Protocol may provide legal or conduct protections when someone seeks medical help for an alcohol- or drug-related emergency.
Signs of Alcohol Poisoning
- Person is unconscious, cannot be woken up, or can only be awakened for a short time
- Difficulty standing or walking
- Person is poorly aware of surroundings
- Exhibits respiratory difficulties (slow, labored breathing)
- Fever or chill
- Blue fingernail beds or gums
- Cold, clammy, or blue extremities
- Vomiting while semi-conscious or unconscious
- Increased, decreased, or irregular pulse—above 100 or below 60 beats per minute
- Mixed alcohol with prescription, over-the-counter or illicit drugs