Eat a decent meal

There is some truth in the idea that you can 'line' your stomach to slow down the absorption of alcohol. Go for food that takes a while to digest, such as pasta, bread and potatoes, or fatty stuff like chips. Eating well pre-party can also help if other drugs are going to feature in your evening. Why? Because it could be some time before your appetite returns.

Pace your intake

Even if you have high hopes for the party, it's important you know your limit and don't simply aim to hit it at the earliest opportunity. With drink or drugs, you owe it to yourself to remain in control. There's nothing worse than realising you've just had one line/drink/joint/pill too many (which in some cases can have serious consequences). Far better to pace yourself, and even let the effects begin to wear off so you can make a clear judgement as to whether you really need any kind of top up.

Snacks and non-alcoholic fluids

These are your friends if you're hoping to make it through the evening in one piece. Be sure to return to both on a regular basis, little and often is the key. If you're drinking alcohol and want to slow down your intake, have a glass of water after every glass or bottle of booze.

Don't mix

We're not talking about drunk DJ-botherers, who insist they can do a better job on the decks, but the importance of sticking to one type of drink (or drug). The risk of combining different types is that it can make the effects unpredictable and harder to handle.

Enjoy yourself!

A party is a good excuse for forgetting about the stresses in your life, and enjoying yourself to the max, so try not to live in fear of overdoing it. Providing you know how to have a good time without having to get utterly wankered then you'll be just fine.

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Updated: 09/12/2011