• In small amounts alcohol can help people to relax and feel more sociable.

• The effect depends on the strength of the drink and how fast it is consumed. Effects also vary depending on when the user last ate, and their weight, mood and surroundings.

• Women get more drunk than men on the same amount of alcohol. This is because women are generally smaller, their bodies contain less water and their metabolism is different.

• Alcohol affects young people more quickly than adults.

• It takes time for alcohol to be absorbed and reach the brain, so users don’t realise how drunk they’re getting. By the time the effects of the first drink is being felt they may be on their second or third.

• Alcohol is absorbed much faster if the user drinks on an empty stomach. This means the effects of the alcohol will be felt more quickly. Users should always eat before drinking or drink while eating a meal.

• Drinking slowly, and not trying to keep up by drinking in ‘rounds’, can help the user to keep a check on their alcohol intake.

• Speech can become slurred, co-ordination affected and emotions heightened.

• A hangover (the after-effects of drinking) can make the user feel ill for a day or more.