A low level of response (low LR) to alcohol as measured at peak and declining blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) is one of several genetically-influenced characteristics that can be identified early in a person’s drinking career and that predict later heavier drinking and alcohol problems (King et al., 2014; Schuckit, 2018). Low LRs can be determined through alcohol challenges where individuals carrying an elevated risk for alcohol problems and appropriate controls are given alcohol and the intensity of responses over time are observed regarding subjective feelings of intoxication as well as alcohol-related changes in physiological measures (e.g., Ehlers et al., 1999; King et al., 2014; Paulus et al., 2012; Schuckit and Gold, 1988; Schuckit et al, 1988). Alcohol-challenge based LR values have been reliably shown to relate to future heavier drinking, alcohol problems and alcohol use disorders (AUDs) (Schuckit et al., 2016; Schuckit and Smith, 1996).
