How Much Is Too Much?

For men:

• Excessive drinking is defined as 5 or more drinks in a short period of time, such as a 2-hour period, or



• More than 14 drinks in a week.

For women and people 65 and older:

• Excessive drinking is defined as 4 or more drinks in a short period of time, such as a 2-hour period, or



• More than 7 drinks in a week.

► See Excessive Drinking is Dangerous(PDF)
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► See Alcohol - How Much Is Too Much?

What counts as 1 drink?

• A 12-oz. glass, bottle, or can of beer or ale



• A 5-oz. glass of wine, or a 3.5-oz. glass of fortified wine



• A 1.5-oz. “shot” of distilled liquor or brandy (straight or in a mixed drink)

Excessive Drinking Is Dangerous

• Cirrhosis (scarring) of the liver
• Hepatitis
• Osteoporosis
• Hypertension
• Enlarged heart or weakening of the heart muscle
• Cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, breast, and colon
• Weakened immune system
• Pneumonia and other infections
• Accidents and injuries
• Committing or being the victim of acts of violence
• Depression, dementia, and other mental disorders
• Suicide

Find the right drug or alcohol abuse treatment program with the
Substance Abuse Treatment Facility Locator

For 24 hour / seven days per week information and referral,
call 1-800-LIFENET.

More Resources

• Rethinking Drinking: Alcohol and Your Health
• Alcohol and Public Health

Last Updated: April 30, 2013