How long does it take for alcohol to be completely metabolized in the human body?
Nov 05, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Huang Yuhong
Introduction
The amount of alcohol consumed directly determines the duration of metabolism. When a small amount of alcohol is consumed (such as 1–2 liang of liquor or one bottle of beer), the liver can break down alcohol at its normal rate, and most people will fully metabolize the alcohol within 4 to 6 hours, reducing blood alcohol concentration to a safe level. However, if a large amount of alcohol is consumed at once (such as more than half a jin of liquor), the metabolism time will be significantly prolonged.
Under normal circumstances, the rate at which alcohol is metabolized in the human body is relatively stable, with approximately 10–15 grams metabolized per hour. After consuming a small amount of alcohol, it generally takes about 4–6 hours for the body to mostly eliminate it. However, when larger quantities of alcohol are consumed or an individual has weaker metabolic capacity, the elimination time can be significantly prolonged. If discomfort occurs, medical attention is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
The amount of alcohol consumed directly determines how long it takes to metabolize. When a small amount of alcohol is consumed (such as 1–2 liang of liquor or one bottle of beer), the liver can break down the alcohol at its normal rate, and most people will have fully metabolized the alcohol within 4–6 hours, with blood alcohol concentration dropping to safe levels. However, if a large amount of alcohol is consumed at once (such as more than half a jin of liquor), exceeding the liver’s immediate metabolic capacity, alcohol accumulates in the bloodstream, greatly extending the metabolism time—possibly requiring 12–24 hours for complete elimination. During this period, symptoms such as dizziness and nausea are more likely to occur.
Factors such as liver function, body weight, and gender can affect the rate of alcohol metabolism. Individuals with good liver function typically have higher activity of alcohol dehydrogenase, enabling faster alcohol breakdown. Heavier individuals have a larger volume of body fluids, which dilutes alcohol and results in lower concentrations, thereby reducing metabolic burden. Women generally have lower levels of alcohol dehydrogenase than men, leading to slower alcohol metabolism. As a result, women tend to require longer metabolism times and are more prone to alcohol accumulation when consuming the same amount of alcohol.
After drinking, avoid driving or operating precision instruments until alcohol has been completely eliminated from the body. If severe symptoms such as persistent vomiting or confusion occur after drinking, seek immediate medical attention to prevent delays in treating alcohol poisoning.
