The World Health Organization (WHO) defines a drug as any substance that can alter functions in a living organism and at the same time is not a food. Unlike in English-speaking countries, where the term “drug” also includes medicines, the concept of drug is defined somewhat more narrowly in Germany. In this country, substances and preparations that can cause a state of intoxication or a change in consciousness and perception and lead to dependence are regarded as drugs.
Drugs differ in their production, composition and mode of action. For example, they can be classified into biogenic and synthetically produced, hard and soft, legal and illegal drugs.
Alcohol (ethanol) as a drug
Alcohol is among the socially accepted legal drugs. Because drinking alcohol is associated with socializing and having fun in most Western countries, it is often not considered a drug. In principle, there is nothing wrong with an occasional glass of wine or beer. However, if alcohol is consumed regularly and/or in excess, the path to alcoholism is pre-programmed.
Alcohol is one of the drugs with a very high damage potential. Drinking alcohol is obtained through the fermentation and distillation of various basic substances such as grain, fruit or sugar cane.
Effect of alcohol
In small doses, alcohol has a disinhibiting effect. It makes people more outgoing and courageous and can induce a change in mood. In a real intoxication, it can cause perceptual and attentional disturbances, even a complete “film break.” Drunk people often have impaired coordination and speech, leading to staggering and slurring.
The day after intoxication, consumers usually experience a “hangover” accompanied by headaches, nausea and physical weakness. Long-term consequences of alcohol abuse can include heart problems, increased propensity to violence, liver damage, depression, and physical and social decline. Alcohol abusers have been shown by studies to have a life expectancy 20 years less than the average population.
