How to recognize and treat alcohol poisoning
Because alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, drinking too much, too fast, slows some bodily functions (such as heart rate, blood pressure, and breathing) to a dangerous level, causing the drinker to lose consciousness.
Possible signs of alcohol poisoning include:
Unconscious or semiconscious state
Slow respiration—eight or fewer breaths per minute, or lapses between breaths of more than eight seconds
Cold, clammy, pale, or bluish skin
A strong odor of alcohol on the breath and coming from the skin