Alcohol contains intoxicating substance called ethyl alcohol or ethanol. It is slows down the functions of the brain and other parts of the nervous system. 28% reported having an alcoholic beverage in the last month. Male students more likely than female students to report episodic heavy drinking. Effects of Alcohol: Heart/Blood Vessels (Short term): Perspiration increases and skin becomes flushed and (Long Term) High blood pressure and damage to the heart muscle; blood vessels harden and become less flexible.