Which neurotransmitter is primarily affected by alcohol consumption?

Which neurotransmitter is primarily affected by alcohol consumption?

• A. Dopamine
• B. Norepinephrine
• C. GABA
• D. Serotonin

Answer: (C)

When alcohol is consumed, it primarily enhances the activity of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), which is a major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. GABA plays a critical role in reducing neuronal excitability throughout the nervous system. Alcohol’s ability to facilitate GABA's effects leads to feelings of relaxation, sedation, and decreased anxiety, which are commonly associated with alcohol consumption. This enhancement occurs because alcohol binds to GABA receptors, increasing the flow of chloride ions into the neuron, making it less likely to fire. The result is a depressant effect on brain activity, inhibiting the cognitive and motor functions. This mechanism is a significant factor in the intoxicating effects of alcohol, as well as its potential for dependency and withdrawal symptoms when intake is reduced. Understanding the role of GABA in relation to alcohol is crucial for recognizing the implications of substance use and the biological processes involved in addiction and its treatment.

When alcohol is consumed, it primarily enhances the activity of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), which is a major inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. GABA plays a critical role in reducing neuronal excitability throughout the nervous system. Alcohol’s ability to facilitate GABA's effects leads to feelings of relaxation, sedation, and decreased anxiety, which are commonly associated with alcohol consumption.

This enhancement occurs because alcohol binds to GABA receptors, increasing the flow of chloride ions into the neuron, making it less likely to fire. The result is a depressant effect on brain activity, inhibiting the cognitive and motor functions. This mechanism is a significant factor in the intoxicating effects of alcohol, as well as its potential for dependency and withdrawal symptoms when intake is reduced.

Understanding the role of GABA in relation to alcohol is crucial for recognizing the implications of substance use and the biological processes involved in addiction and its treatment.