Non-linear kinetics of ethanol elimination in man: medico-legal applications of the terminal concentration-time data analysis

Forensic Sci Int. 1983 May-Jun;21(3):207-13. doi: 10.1016/0379-0738(83)90124-x.

Abstract

Research regarding parameters suitable for reporting on the activity of enzymatic systems responsible for ethanol metabolism is of obvious interest in medico-legal practice. Blood ethanol concentration-time curves, following oral administration of ethanol, have been developed for ethylic and non-ethylic subjects. This study has confirmed the non-linear kinetics of ethanol elimination; however, existing non-linear models appear to be inadequate for usual medico-legal practice, because of their complexity. We observed three phases during the elimination of ethanol. The first order terminal phase is characterized by its half-life. This parameter seems adequate as a basis for determining the activity of enzyme systems responsible for the metabolism of ethanol.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Alcoholism / blood
  • Ethanol / administration & dosage
  • Ethanol / blood*
  • Ethanol / metabolism
  • Female
  • Half-Life
  • Humans
  • Kinetics
  • Male
  • Middle Aged

Substances

  • Ethanol