This document provides an overview of alcohol including its chemical properties, effects on the body, risks of abuse and dependence, and medical uses and risks. Key points include: - Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that can cause impairment at high doses and is linked to many health and social problems. - Chronic heavy drinking can damage major organs like the liver, heart and brain and increase risks of certain cancers. - Dependence and withdrawal involve physical and psychological risks that require medical management in some cases. - Fetal alcohol syndrome is a serious risk for pregnant women who drink alcohol.