substance Score Unrated 0 ratingsβ€” needs β‰₯ 3 ratings C2H6O Also on Neurotransmission β†—
β€’Β 3D

Alcohol (ethanol) is a central-nervous-system depressant that enhances GABA and inhibits glutamate, producing acute relaxation, disinhibition, and impaired coordination. It is among the most harmful recreational substances: chronic use drives dependence, liver disease, several cancers, cardiovascular harm, and cognitive and brain injury, and large analyses find no clearly "safe" level for some outcomes. Any short-term subjective benefits are outweighed by well-documented long-term risks.

Too little may be associated with

No requirement; none needed by the body.

Too much may be associated with

Intoxication, addiction, liver and brain damage.

Informational only β€” not medical advice.

Benefits

Widely used socially for relaxation; despite some unfounded claims of benefits, no health authority recommends drinking for health.

Risks

Addictive and a group-1 carcinogen. Raises risk of liver disease, several cancers, high blood pressure, dependence, accidents, and fetal harm in pregnancy. Risk rises with dose and no fully "safe" level is established.

Informational only β€” not medical advice.

Books (20)

Podcasts

Research (70)

Links

Recovery resources

Help for alcohol use and recovery. Not an endorsement or medical advice β€” see all recovery resources.

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