Alcohol is a substance that requires little introduction, but is it actually considered a drug?
The simple answer is yes—it is, and it can be highly addictive.
In this discussion, we’ll explore the type of drug alcohol is, how it affects brain function, and why it’s so habit-forming.
Alcohol Is Classified as a Drug
Alcohol is categorized as a central nervous system (CNS) depressant.
As a CNS depressant, alcohol slows down brain function and neural activity, leading to impaired mental processes and decreased essential functions. This is often seen in symptoms such as slurred speech, delayed reactions, and unsteady movements.
For social drinkers who enjoy the stimulating effect of a glass of wine at dinner, it might seem surprising that alcohol is considered a depressant. However, these depressant effects become more evident with higher levels of consumption and can even lead to alcohol poisoning in extreme cases.
Stimulatory Effects of Alcohol
In smaller amounts, alcohol can produce stimulating effects such as:
- Euphoria
- Elevated mood
- Increased heart rate
- Raised blood pressure
- Enhanced sociability
These are common experiences during the early stages of a social evening with friends.
Depressant Effects of Excessive Drinking
When alcohol is consumed in larger quantities, the depressant effects dominate, resulting in:
- Distorted perceptions
- Impaired motor skills
- Reduced inhibitions
- Slurred speech
- Loss of balance
Clearly, alcohol functions as a drug, but how exactly does this CNS depressant impact the brain?
How Does Alcohol Affect Brain Chemistry?
Alcohol has a significant impact on altering consciousness—often the exact effect sought by those who drink heavily.
It affects the central nervous system by influencing various neurotransmitters in the brain. In simpler terms, alcohol disrupts communication between brain cells. When these signals are blocked, the typical symptoms of intoxication appear.
For those who consume alcohol excessively over time, the brain begins to adapt by reacting more intensely to certain neurotransmitters. How does this change in brain chemistry affect individuals with alcohol use disorder?
When a heavy drinker stops consuming alcohol, the brain continues to compensate for the disruption by overreacting to neurotransmitter activity. This leads to short-term withdrawal symptoms and, over time, can potentially cause damage to brain cells.
The problem is particularly severe with binge drinking, a widespread issue across the country, including on college campuses. According to a CDC study, Kentucky ranks third in the U.S. for binge drinking, with binge drinkers consuming over 650 alcoholic drinks annually on average. Only Arkansas and Mississippi report higher rates.
Is Alcohol Addictive?
If you or someone you know struggles with drinking too much, you’re not alone. The 2018 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH) found that 14.4 million American adults have alcohol use disorder (AUD).
There is no doubt that alcohol can be habit-forming. But how does this dependence develop?
A study by the University of California aimed to understand the effects of alcohol consumption by comparing 13 heavy drinkers with 12 lighter drinkers using PET imaging. Drinking alcohol triggered the release of endorphins—natural opioids—in the brain, with heavy drinkers showing a higher release.
Although more research is needed, many studies have already explored how alcohol stimulates the release of dopamine and endorphins—chemicals associated with pleasure. Genetic factors can also influence how individuals respond to alcohol differently.
Moreover, alcohol can become psychologically addictive when used as a coping mechanism for stress, depression, or anxiety.
What To Do Next
Now that it’s clear alcohol is a drug with a high potential for addiction, know that help is available.
If you or a loved one needs support in overcoming alcohol use disorder, Sunrise Recovery in Jeffersonville Indiana offers assistance at every stage, from medically-supervised detox and residential rehab to intensive outpatient programs and aftercare.
While alcohol may be a powerful drug, choosing to stop is within your reach. Call us today at +1 (877) 978 – 6747 to begin your journey to recovery.
