Chazal instituted that one should drink wine on Purim “until he doesn’t know the difference between Arur Haman and Baruch Mordechai”. Many Poskim understand this to mean that one must drink to the point of intoxication.
At the same time, the Poskim caution against becoming inebriated when there is even the slightest chance of negative consequences. This especially applies to anyone with a medical issue or a weak constitution; to young teenagers; to anyone whose behavior may not completely conform with Halachah when inebriated (such as forgetting to make a Brachah properly, bentch or daven Maariv); to anyone who may cause damage or injury to himself or others; or to anyone who may cause a Chillul Hashem when inebriated. Anyone in this category should discharge their obligation by drinking only slightly more wine or alcohol than usual.
It goes without saying that drinking and driving can be deadly and is a severe violation of Halachah. It is also dangerous for an intoxicated person to cross the road himself, and he should therefore be escorted home safely.
The Mitzvah of drinking wine or alcohol does not apply to women and children.
The Lubavitcher Rebbe established a year-round ban against people under the age of forty drinking more than four Kelitchlach (shot cups) of alcohol. Some years, the Rebbe made an exception for Purim. However, on many other occasions, the Rebbe stated explicitly that this ban extends even to Purim. The Rebbe would especially caution the Bochurim about this, and suggested that they fulfil their obligation by increased involvement in “Yeyna shel Torah” (the wine of Torah).
