A standard drink is metabolized out of your system in approximately 1.5 hours. Low to moderate amounts can produce feelings of relaxation, lowed inhibitions, and increased sociability. Larger amounts can cause dizziness, nausea, slurred speech, slower reflexes, sleepiness, bad judgment, dehydration and a hangover the next day. Long term use can damage the liver, brain and other organs, and can result in severe mental and physical problems. Consuming too much alcohol at once can cause death through acute alcohol toxicity.
Drinking games are especially dangerous as they can easily lead to overdoses.
Alcohol impairs vision and motor coordination. Driving drunk is illegal and endangers yourself and others. In the United States, it is illegal to purchase alcohol if you are under 21 years of age.