Very high doses can cause respiratory depression and death. If combined with other depressants of the central nervous system, even low doses of alcohol can be fatal. Alcohol-related automobile accidents are the number one cause of death among people 15 to 24 years old. Repeated use of alcohol can lead to physical and psychological dependence. Dependent persons who suddenly stop drinking are likely to suffer withdrawal symptoms, including severe anxiety, tremors, hallucinations and convulsions.
Alcohol withdrawal can be life-threatening.
Long term consumption of large quantities of alcohol, especially when combined with poor nutrition, can lead to permanent damage of vital organs such as the brain and the liver. Mothers who drink alcohol during pregnancy may give birth to infants with fetal alcohol syndrome. These infants have irreversible physical abnormalities and mental retardation. Research also indicates that children of alcoholic parents are at increased risk to become alcoholics themselves. Drugs interfere with the brain's ability to take in, sort, and synthesize information.