Alcohol

Conclusion

Alcohol enhances the inhibitory action of the neurotransmitter GABA. This gives you a calm, relaxed feeling.

Alcohol inhibits the excitatory action of the neurotransmitter glutamate. This interferes with your memory functions and other bodily processes.

Alcohol also influences several other neurotransmitter systems in the brain. The result is a pleasant, euphoric feeling. But too much alcohol can make you completely stop breathing.

If you drink alcohol regularly, you need more and more of it to get the effects you want. Your body builds up a tolerance to alcohol. If you stop drinking, you may experience withdrawal symptoms.

Drinking large amounts of alcohol regularly can lead to depression and dementia.