the depressing functions of alcohol begin at the sip of alcohol
MODULE 3: DUI PREVENTION (A). Alcohol is a colorless, odorless, volatile, pungent drug that acts as a depressant. The effects of alcohol are a general depressing of the functions of the brain and body. Depressing of these functions begins at the first sip of alcohol.The only safe amount of alcohol to consume and then drive is none. Alcohol often makes the individual tired and drowsy. Alcohol affects you differently at different times. 2  If you are upset, over-tired, have an empty stomach, drugs or alcohol will probably have a stronger effect on you. 3  The amount of alcohol in a one ounce shot of 80 proof whiskey, five ounce glass of wine and 12-oz. beer is all the same.