As a diuretic, alcohol leads to increased urination often causing dehydration, electrolyte imbalances and lower blood sugar levels. Alcohol also has toxic effects on the brain and liver and irritating effects on the stomach and intestine. In particular, dark or colored alcohols (i.e. whiskey, red wine, and tequila) contain small amounts of congener, which is a toxin that may make experiencing a hangover more likely. At high enough levels, alcohol (a depressant) may lead to decreased respiration resulting in coma and death.
Prevention is the best medicine. The best way to treat a hangover is through prevention. Hangovers can be prevented by limiting the amount of alcohol you choose to consume at any given occasion and being sure to alternate alcoholic beverages with non-alcoholic beverages. Water, sports drinks with electrolytes, and juice help replenish electrolytes and vitamins lost when drinking alcohol.
If you are experiencing a hangover, over the counter pain medication and antacids may help relieve symptoms. Acetaminophen based pain relievers, when taken as directed, should be safe for most students to use. Pain relievers with aspirin or ibuprofen should be taken only with food to prevent stomach irritation.
Treating a Hangover
Helpful Links
Alcohol and Drugs
Bruce the Bat
Alcohol Overdose and the Recovery Position
Prescription Drug Misuse
Prescription Stimulant Misuse
Having Fun and Playing Safe
Naloxone / Narcan
Programs and Classes
Individual Consultations
AlcoholEdu and SAPU
Brief Alcohol Screening Intervention for College Students (BASICS)
Center for Students in Recovery
Student Amnesty for Alcohol Emergencies
SHIFT
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100 West Dean Keeton Student Services Building (SSB)