Boffins have invented a “miracle” pill that could end hangovers – but also stops people getting drunk.
Scientists have revealed they are one step closer to developing a gel that can put an end to alcohol-related damage to organs.
The protein based substance, which is swallowed 30 minutes before drinking, breaks booze down into a harmless liquid which blocks anyone getting drunk.
It was developed by researchers at ETH University in Zurich, Switzerland, who said it absorbs alcohol in the stomach before it enters the bloodstream.
Whilst it could wipe out the toxic ingredients that cause damage to organs, as well as next day hangovers, it also removes the ‘highs’ people feel when they have had a drink.
(Image: Getty Images/Westend61)
But David Nutt, a professor of neuropsychopharmacology at Imperial College London, said it made no “economic sense” given the cost of the product – which has so far only been tested on animals – as well as the cost of buying alcohol.
He said: “The obvious alternative is just to drink less or not at all.
“The gel might be of some help to those who are unable to cut back on alcohol, as it might be able to reduce intoxication and alcohol-related damage.
“But for everyone else it doesn’t make economic sense, as there would be the cost of the gel plus paying for the “wasted” alcohol.
“Similar alcohol-cancelling products have been tried in the past without great success.”
For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.