Polyethylene Glycol Relieves Hangover by Reducing Alcohol Absorption through the Intestinal Wall

Abstract Therapeutic options for hangover following alcohol consumption, a prevalent health problem worldwide, remain unavailable. This study investigated the effectiveness of polyethylene glycol (PEG) on hangovers using a mouse model. First, large quantities of alcohol (4 g/kg body weight) was administered to mice. Subsequently, PEG (2 g/kg body weight) or an equivalent volume of vehicle was administered orally after alcohol consumption. Acute alcohol consumption was found to damage not only the liver but also the small intestine, as noted in histological findings and mRNA expression analysis of inflammatory cytokines. We also identified impaired motor function in the mouse model of binge drinking. Interestingly, PEG drastically prevented injury and inflammation of the small intestine after binge drinking in mice. Furthermore, PEG had hepatoprotective effects, evident from decreased hepatic enzyme levels in the serum, diminished liver injury observed following H and E staining, and decreased infiltration of neutrophils within the liver. Taken together, these findings suggest that PEG administration with acute alcohol consumption may be an effective therapeutic option to prevent severe hangover symptoms or damage to certain organs.