Blood alcohol levels as a function of menstrual cycle phase in female Macaque monkeys

Abstract

Female Macaque monkeys were given a low (1.5 g/kg), moderate (2.5 g/kg) and high (3.5 g/kg) dose of alcohol via nasogastric intubation. Integrated plasma samples for blood alcohol analysis were collected at 30 minute intervals over 210 minutes. Peak blood alcohol levels measured at the premenstruum, menstruation, the periovulatory and mid-luteal phase of the menstrual cycle did not differ significantly after a standard dose of alcohol. Average peak blood alcohol levels, independent of menstrual cycle phase after low, moderate and high doses of alcohol were 139, 238 and 335 mg/dl. Menstrual cycle phase was verified by calendar and radioimmunoassay of levels of luteinizing hormone and 17-β estradiol. We conclude that in alcohol-naive female Macaque monkeys studied under controlled conditions, peak blood alcohol levels after a standard dose of alcohol do not vary as a function of phase of the menstrual cycle.