What type of kinetics applies for alcohol in the body? 

Because alcohol is a lipophylic molecule, it has a very fast distribution and absorbtion time. Peak levels in the body are achieved after just 30 minutes. The peak concentrations are usually higher in women, seeing as how men have more fluids to dilute the alcohol in the body. Alcohol is metabolised by the Liver and can activate 2E1 (Induce NAPQI formation when drinking Paracetamol with alcohol).

Give a brief summary of the metabolic pathways of ethanol metabolism.

Ethanol metabolism occurs via 2 enzyme systems.

1)   Alcohol dehydrogenase system – Usually when there is a low amount of alcohol present in the body. Co-Enzyme NAD breaks down alcohol in acetaldehyde and aldehyde dehydrogenase enzyme converts that into acetate. The coenzyme NAD is limited, and thus this system can be saturated.

2) Microsomal ethanol oxidation (Mixed function oxidation) – usually when there is a higher amount of alcohol present in the body. (>100 mg/dL). Alcohol are being broken down into acetaldehyde and aldehyde dehydrogenase will convert it into acetate.

Which drugs can affect this metabolism and what are the effects thereof?

Disulfiram, Metronidazole, Cephalosporins and Hypoglycaemic drugs.

Aldehyde dehydrogenase is inhibited by these drugs.  The accumulation of acetaldehyde cause symptoms such as nausea, headache and dizziness.