Alcohol Use Disorder: Neurobiology and Therapeutics

This research reviews Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD), a condition marked by compulsive alcohol consumption, withdrawal symptoms, and long-term brain changes. AUD disrupts neurotransmitters like dopamine and GABA, impairing circuits for reward, decision-making, and stress response. These changes foster addiction and hinder recovery. Treatments include behavioral therapies, medications targeting affected neurotransmitters, and lifestyle changes, yet access barriers persist. The study emphasizes integrating neurological and social interventions to manage AUD and its wide-reaching effects.

Limit alcohol consumption to reduce the risk of AUD and its impacts on brain health, including impaired memory and decision-making. Those already consuming alcohol should seek support, such as therapy or counseling, and consider interventions like mindfulness to handle stress, as shown effective in non-pharmacological therapies.