What Is Intoxication?

You have reached the point of intoxication when the alcohol produces mental or physical
impairments, such as slurred speech, difficulty walking, or disorientation.1 In addition to
observable symptoms, your level of intoxication is also distinguishable through tests, such as a
breathalyzer or blood test.

Causes
Alcohol is a term used for ethanol, a common substance in wine, beer, and liquor. Ethanol is
responsible for intoxication because it has a depressive impact on parts of the brain. As more
alcohol is ingested, the ethanol takes greater effect, causing impairments in progressive order,
such as:2

 Loss of Inhibitions: After just a couple of drinks, you may feel more relaxed, more open
and less self-conscious3
 Euphoria: You may feel elated, engage in talkative or loud conversations or do other
actions you wouldn't normally, such as dancing. 
 Ataxia: Ataxia refers to impaired walking. You may be unable to walk a straight line or
repeatedly stumble.4
 Poor Judgment: You may make poor decisions you wouldn't otherwise make, such as
sleeping with someone or driving under the influence.
 Vomiting: You may begin to vomit as your body tries to rid itself of the ethanol in your
system
 Confusion and lethargy: You may become disoriented, unaware of where you are. You
also may become extremely tired, sometimes passing out. 
 Shutdown of System: You can enter a coma-like state or even die.