Alcohol is one of the most commonly used substances worldwide. Here in California, 16.6% of adults binge drink at least once per month. While moderate drinking may be seen as socially acceptable, it’s important to understand that alcohol directly impacts the brain’s chemistry. This is why researchers say that no amount of alcohol is safe. 

In particular, alcohol influences neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers responsible for transmitting signals between nerve cells. By learning how alcohol alters these neurotransmitters, we can better understand its short- and long-term effects on mood, cognition, and behavior. Let’s dig in. 

What Are Neurotransmitters?

Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that travel across synapses (the gaps between neurons) to communicate information throughout the nervous system. Different neurotransmitters have distinct effects on mood, arousal, motivation, and many other psychological and physiological functions. When these messengers are disrupted—whether by substances like alcohol or by certain health conditions—it can lead to changes in thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

Key Neurotransmitters Affected by Alcohol

Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA)

GABA is the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, helping to slow down neuronal activity. It produces a calming effect, reducing anxiety and excitability. When you drink alcohol, GABA receptors become more active. This boost in inhibition can result in relaxation, sedation, and reduced anxiety—one reason many people feel more at ease or less stressed after a drink. However, excessive alcohol intake can lead to severe drowsiness, impaired judgment, and slowed reaction times.

Glutamate

Glutamate is the main excitatory neurotransmitter, encouraging neurons to fire. It plays a crucial part in learning, memory, and overall brain function. Alcohol inhibits glutamate receptors, particularly the NMDA receptor. This dampening of excitatory signals can lead to cognitive impairment, memory lapses (commonly known as “blackouts”), and a general slowing of brain activity. Over the long term, this inhibition can affect your ability to learn or retain new information.

Dopamine

Dopamine is often called the “pleasure” neurotransmitter. It’s deeply involved in the brain’s reward pathway, motivation, and reinforcement of behaviors that bring enjoyment or relief. Drinking alcohol can increase dopamine release in the short term, contributing to the euphoric “buzz” that some people experience. This dopamine surge is part of what can make alcohol habit-forming. Over time, repeated alcohol use can lead to tolerance, requiring more alcohol to achieve the same dopamine “high”—and potentially contributing to alcohol use disorder. 

Serotonin

Serotonin helps regulate mood, appetite, and sleep and is often associated with feelings of well-being and happiness. Alcohol can temporarily increase serotonin levels, potentially improving mood for a short while. However, chronic alcohol use can disrupt serotonin pathways, leading to mood swings, depression, or anxiety as the body struggles to maintain balance in the absence of alcohol.

Endorphins

Endorphins are natural painkillers and mood enhancers produced by the body. They help minimize discomfort and encourage a sense of well-being. Like other mood-altering substances, alcohol can prompt the release of endorphins, contributing to pain relief and pleasure. This effect, however, can be dangerous when combined with other analgesics and can also reinforce the cycle of alcohol use due to the pleasurable sensations it provides.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Effects

Short-Term Effects

• Relaxation and Reduced Anxiety: Due to the enhanced activity of GABA and the dampening of glutamate.
• Euphoria or Elevated Mood: Tied to the release of dopamine and possible increases in serotonin and endorphins.
• Impaired Judgment and Coordination: Linked to the inhibitory effects on the brain’s excitatory systems.
• Memory Lapses: Inhibition of glutamate receptors can lead to short-term memory loss or difficulty retaining new information.

Long-Term Effects

• Tolerance and Dependency: Ongoing alcohol use can disrupt the brain’s reward circuitry, requiring more alcohol for the same effect and paving the way for addiction.
• Mood Disturbances: Chronic changes to serotonin, dopamine, and other neurotransmitters can result in depression, anxiety, or more severe mental health issues.
• Cognitive Decline: Persistently interfering with glutamate receptors may lead to memory problems and impaired learning abilities over time.
• Physical Health Risks: Including liver disease, cardiovascular problems, and neurological complications, all interconnected with the brain’s altered neurotransmitter balance.

Treating Alcohol Misuse

The continued misuse of alcohol can lead to alcohol use disorder (AUD), a medical condition that happens when you can’t stop using alcohol, despite negative effects. By recognizing the severity of your alcohol use, you can seek professional help. 

AUD responds well to treatment, which includes medical detoxification, behavioral therapies, peer support groups, holistic therapies, medications, and aftercare support. Many inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation programs are comprehensive and offer these services under one roof. 

Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment in Agoura Hills, CA

Alcohol’s effects on neurotransmitters like GABA, glutamate, dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins explain its powerful influence on our emotions, behaviors, and overall brain function. While moderate use may be safe for some people, heavy or long-term drinking can significantly disrupt these delicate chemical balances, leading to risks such as addiction, mood disorders, and cognitive decline.

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol use, it’s crucial to seek professional guidance. Understanding how alcohol affects your brain chemistry is the first step in making informed decisions about consumption and health. To start your recovery from alcohol use disorder, contact Awakenings Treatment Center at 833-832-7176.