Why do women typically stay drunk longer than men?

Women typically stay drunk longer than men primarily because they have less alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), an enzyme that helps metabolize alcohol in the body. ADH is primarily found in the liver and to some extent in the stomach lining, where it begins the process of breaking down alcohol before it enters the bloodstream. Women generally have lower levels of this enzyme compared to men, which means that the alcohol they consume is not processed as effectively or quickly.

This difference in metabolism leads to higher blood alcohol concentrations (BAC) for women than for men after consuming the same amount of alcohol. As a result, women may experience the effects of alcohol for a longer duration, which contributes to a longer period of intoxication. Understanding this biological difference is crucial for addressing issues of alcohol use and dependence and informs tailored treatment strategies for women struggling with alcohol-related problems.