Which of the following statements about alcohol consumption is correct?

A. Vomiting is a sign the body is getting toxic.

B. Vomiting at the end of a night of drinking is good.

C. Coffee will help sober someone up.

D. Alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence are different names for the same problem.

Answer: A. Vomiting is a sign the body is getting toxic.
Correct. Vomiting after consuming alcohol indicates that the body is responding to excess toxins. The liver metabolizes alcohol into acetaldehyde, a toxic compound. When alcohol is consumed in large quantities, the liver cannot process it efficiently, prompting the body to expel the toxin through vomiting. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), this can sometimes help prevent alcohol poisoning, but excessive vomiting can lead to dehydration and other complications.

B. Vomiting at the end of a night of drinking is good.
Partially Correct. Vomiting can help remove some alcohol from the stomach, but it is not a recommended or safe way to manage excessive drinking. The Mayo Clinic warns that frequent vomiting can cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and damage to the esophagus. Additionally, there is a risk of choking, especially if the individual is unconscious.

C. Coffee will help sober someone up.
Incorrect. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that caffeine may make a person feel more alert, but it does not reduce blood alcohol levels. The only way to sober up is to allow time for the liver to metabolize the alcohol, which typically occurs at a rate of 0.015% BAC per hour.

D. Alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence are different names for the same problem.
Incorrect. While related, alcohol abuse and alcohol dependence (now classified under Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) in the DSM-5) are distinct conditions.

• Alcohol abuse refers to a pattern of drinking that leads to negative consequences, such as neglecting responsibilities or engaging in risky behaviors.
• Alcohol dependence involves a physical reliance on alcohol, including withdrawal symptoms and increased tolerance.

Final Answer:

The most correct statement is A. Vomiting is a sign the body is getting toxic. However, it is crucial to recognize that vomiting does not necessarily prevent alcohol poisoning, and excessive drinking requires proper medical attention.