The 'demon drink' is also a major problem in those with other addictions. Many heroin addicts do not drink at all. Some others only have drinking problems when they are off the heroin, while a small number drink excessively regardless of their intake of other drugs. Breath tests can be used in the clinical setting to underline the obvious. Results should not, however be used in any way other than in the patient's interest.
Alcohol is the commonest drug involved in overdose deaths.
It causes depressed breathing which is worsened by narcotics and tranquillizers. It is not widely known that adults can also die from acute alcohol intoxication alone. The commonest problems with alcohol, however, are behavioural. Family violence, drownings, motor accidents and crowd brawls are all closely associated with drinking. Medical consequences include acid dyspepsia, stomach ulcers, hepatitis, liver failure, heart disease, neuritis, brain damage, and dementia.