Gastric lavage, intestinal charcoal decontamination and specific drug
antagonism, therapeutic measures widely applied in other intoxications
, are of no clear benefit or unavailable in patients with alcohol into
xication. The gastric first-pass-effect is important in modifying the
kinetics of alcohol, and clinically relevant drug-alcohol interactions
occur in situations of both acute and chronic alcohol abuse. Alcohol-
induced hypoglycemia and ketoacidosis should be considered in every se
verely ill alcoholic patient. The recognition of alcoholism is importa
nt and rewarding, since therapeutic action by the practicing physician
can be of significant help.