Alcohol consumption by C57BL/6, BALB/c, and DBA/2 mice in a limited access paradigm.

Alcohol consumption by three inbred mice strains in a limited access condition was examined. Access to "Richter" tubes containing alcohol solution was restricted to 60 min per day in a drinking cage. Alcohol solution was given in escalating concentrations starting at 3% and ending at 12% w/v over several days. During the 12% phase, C57 mice consumed an average of 1.68 g/kg, while BALB and DBA mice consumed an average of 0.66 and 0.25 g/kg, respectively. The C57BL/6 mice achieved an average blood alcohol level (BAL) of 60 mg%, whereas the other two strains displayed negligible levels. The relationship between alcohol intake in a continuous and limited access as well as the utility of the limited access paradigm are discussed.