Severe toxicity from ethanol, manifested as coma, occurs at lower blood alcohol concentrations in young teenagers than in adults. Coma, vomiting and hypothermia are the commonest symptoms in young teenagers intoxicated by alcohol. The biochemical disturbances in children 11-16 years of age with alcohol in- toxication resemble those of adults. Mild acidosis of a respiratory and metabolic origin and mild hypo- kalaemia are common findings in young teenagers. Young teenagers eliminate ethanol at the same rate as adults, whereas preschool age chil- dren are reported to eliminate ethanol twice as fast. The effect of ethanol on the state of consciousness is directly proportional to the blood alcohol concentration. Among small children the risk of hypoglycaemia is increased. Data on family history, so- cial status, drinking habits, and chip dren's motives for getting drunk are also of clinical importance. Fluid re- placement with glucose-containing fluids and follow up are generally the only treatments needed for com- plete recovery. When children and adolescents are healthy, well-nour- ished and have not fasted, no severe complications are expected.