A terminal blood ethanol concentration of 100mg/dL was selected based on our experience in previous studies (McCaul et al., 2000; Turkkan et al., 1988). The total alcohol dose needed to achieve a BAC of 100 mg/dL was divided equally over three drinks. Each alcohol drink was prepared by mixing the appropriate amount of 95% ethyl alcohol (Spectrum Chemicals) with a non-calorically sweetened beverage (Kool-Aid) to achieve a volume of 4 oz. Placebo drinks were prepared by floating one ml of ethanol on top of the 4 oz of sweetened beverage immediately prior to administration to blind the subject to its content. Also as part of the blinding procedures, an ethanol-soaked wrist band was placed around each glass to deliver a strong alcohol odor.
