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At-Risk Alcohol Use

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 3, 2024.

What is at-risk alcohol use?

At-risk alcohol use means you drink more than recommended daily or weekly limits. For men 21 to 64 years, the limit is 4 drinks within 24 hours or 14 within a week. For women and for men 65 or older, it is 3 drinks within 24 hours or 7 within a week. A drink is 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1½ ounces of liquor. Your healthcare provider may recommend lower limits for you if you have a health condition. No amount of alcohol is safe during pregnancy.

What increases my risk for at-risk alcohol use?

What problems can at-risk alcohol use cause?

What is at-risk alcohol use screening?

Screening means healthcare providers ask about alcohol use during medical appointments. Your healthcare provider will ask you how much and how often you drink. This includes drinking regularly or drinking large amounts in a short period of time (binge drinking). Your provider may also want to know if alcohol use disorder or other substance use disorders run in your family. Your provider may ask how you are doing in school or at work.

How is at-risk alcohol use treated?

Your healthcare provider may admit you to the hospital to help you withdraw from alcohol safely. At the hospital, you may need any of the following:

What can I do to manage my alcohol use?

Where can I find support and more information?

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) for any of the following:

When should I call my doctor?

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.