Alcohol affects people differently. It depends what you drink, how much and how quickly you drink it. It also depends on your size and weight, and whether you’re male or female. If you drink and take over-the-counter, prescribed medications or other drugs, it can increase your risk of an overdose.

Two illustrated glasses of beer with a clock next to it.

Some short-term effects include:
  • dizziness
  • slower reflexes
  • poor balance
  • poor coordination
  • slurring of words
  • drowsiness
  • impaired judgment.

4 illustrated glasses of beer with a fast moving clock next to it.

If you have a large amount of alcohol in a short period of time you may experience:
  • headaches
  • nausea and vomiting
  • agitation
  • mood swings
  • risky behaviour, injuries, accidents
  • loss of consciousness
  • respiratory arrest including death.

12 glasses of beer with a calendar and clock next to it.

Long-term impacts can include:
  • memory loss and confusion
  • dementia
  • poor sleep
  • increased risk of a range of cancers
  • liver and heart disease
  • diabetes
  • fertility problems.

Support services

adis 24/7 Alcohol and Drug Support

adis is a confidential support service for people in Queensland with alcohol and other drug concerns, their families and health professionals.

Call Alcohol and Drug Support on 1800 177 833.

Visit the adis website

Last updated: May 2025

Back to top