In alcohol use disorder, what pattern of neurotransmitter changes is described?

• A. Increase in GABA and dopamine and decrease in serotonin
• B. Decrease in GABA and dopamine and increase in serotonin
• C. Increase in acetylcholine
• D. Decrease in norepinephrine

Answer: (A)

Alcohol produces its effects by boosting inhibitory signaling and reward pathways in the brain. It enhances GABA-A receptor activity, increasing GABA neurotransmission, which leads to the calming, sedative, and motor-impairing effects of intoxication. It also stimulates dopamine release in the mesolimbic reward pathway, which reinforces drinking and contributes to craving. At the same time, chronic use and associated mood disturbances tend to lower serotonin activity, contributing dysphoria and impulsivity. This combination—increased GABA and dopamine with decreased serotonin—fits the described pattern. Acetylcholine and norepinephrine changes are not the primary pattern described for alcohol use disorder.