Alcohol is a depressant that affects the central nervous system, and its effects on the body depend on various factors, such as the amount of alcohol consumed, body weight, age, gender, and food intake. According to Drug Patent Watch [1], alcohol is not a drug that requires a patent, so there is no information about the duration of its effects. However, the effects of alcohol can be felt within 5-10 minutes of consumption and can last for several hours, depending on the amount consumed.

GoodRx [2] states that alcohol can stay in the bloodstream for up to 12 hours, depending on the individual's metabolism and the amount consumed. The liver processes alcohol at a rate of approximately one standard drink per hour, so the more drinks consumed, the longer it will take for the alcohol to be eliminated from the body. Additionally, Healthline [3] notes that the symptoms of being drunk, such as impaired judgment, slurred speech, and loss of coordination, can last for several hours after the last drink.

It is important to note that the effects of alcohol can vary from person to person, and it is always recommended to drink responsibly and in moderation. It is also important to wait until the effects of alcohol have worn off before driving or operating heavy machinery.

In conclusion, the effects of alcohol can last for several hours, and the duration depends on various factors such as the amount consumed and the individual's metabolism. It is always important to drink responsibly and wait until the effects of alcohol have worn off before engaging in any activities that require alertness and coordination.

Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/p/tradename/ALCOHOL
[2] https://www.goodrx.com/health-topic/alcohol/how-long-does-alcohol-stay-in-your-system
[3] https://www.healthline.com/health/how-long-does-being-drunk-last