Asian Flush Reaction

Q. What is Asian Flush?

A. Asian flush or alcohol flush is a flushing (redness) of the face after low to moderate amounts of alcohol consumption. This alcohol-flush reaction occurs in some Caucasians, but is particularly common among Asians, affecting up to 50 percent.

Q. What causes it?

A. Alcohol flush occurs when the body cannot break down ingested alcohol completely which causes a buildup of a highly toxic byproduct called acetaldehyde. This buildup produces vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) which causes a red glow. (For those interested in chemistry, see acetaldehyde.)

Q. What other effects besides flushing occur?

A. Besides reddening of the face, neck and shoulders, dizziness, itchiness, increased heart rate, low blood pressure, headache, hyperventilation, and nausea often occur. Hangovers also typically occur with much lower levels of alcohol consumption.

Q. Why are Asians particularly susceptible?

A. A genetic link is the simple answer. About half of Asians have a slightly different gene and this gene doesn't produce enough of a important enzyme (aldehyde dehydrogenase). This enzyme is essential for the breakdown of alcohol (specifically acetaldehyde) and the lack of it causes highly toxic accumulations of acetaldehyde when drinking.

Q. How does taking Sobrietol® help?

A. Sobrietol® provides the critical enzyme required. It helps prevent the toxic buildup that causes Asian Flush.

Q. When should I take Sobrietol®?

A. Take Sobrietol® immediately before, or shortly after beginning to drink. If the occasion stretches on for several hours and you continue to drink, take Sobrietol® again. You will know that Sobrietol® has run out when you begin to flush.

Q. I have heard that taking Tylenol when drinking alcohol can cause liver damage and even death. Is Sobrietol® safe to take for Alcohol Flush?

A. Sobrietol® is totally safe. If you take more than your body needs, it simply gets digested. All ingredients meet the requirements of the FDA’s Generally Reported as Safe (GRAS) list. It's just like taking a vitamin supplement.