How much alcohol is safe to drink per week?

Clinical answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Posted: 9 August 2025Updated: 9 August 2025 Clinically Reviewed
Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGPClinical Lead • iatroX

For adults, it is safest not to regularly drink more than 14 units of alcohol per week to keep health risks to a low level ,. If individuals consume 14 units per week, it is recommended that they spread this intake evenly over 3 days or more ,.

Harmful drinking is defined as consuming 35 or more units per week for women, and 50 or more units per week for men . Hazardous drinking is defined as consuming more than 14 units per week but less than 35 units for women, and more than 14 units per week but less than 50 units for men .

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Educational content only. Always verify information and use clinical judgement.