Affect on Dopamine, Seratonin, and Endogenous Opiates (>.01-.05 BAC)
Dopamine simulates pleasure centers and functions in positive reinforcement
- alcohol increases Dopamine concentrations in nucleus acumbens and other reward centers
Serotonin functions as a behavioral inhibitor
- alcohol decreases serotonin activity leading to increased impulsivity and aggressiveness in certain regions of the brain
Endorphins and Enkephalins are natural neural peptides that bind to opiate receptors and produce euphoric effects.
- Endorphins and Enkephalins are released by the brain when exposed to alcohol
- Euphoria seems to stimulate further drinking
SOURCE: Eighth Special Report to the US Congress on Alcohol and Health, US Dept. of HHS (1993), p 86-94