Posted by Caleb462 on May 30, 2003, at 19:46:24
In reply to Re: Alchohol isn't really a depresant , posted by Tony P on May 30, 2003, at 9:36:47
> > > Alchohol should't directly effect the antidepresant responce of Celexa as their actions are on different neurotransmitter systems.
> >
> > Actually, alcohol has a pretty signifigant effect on the serotonergic system. It increases the release of serotonin, and because of this, may cause a temporary deficit in serotonin levels after use - quite similiar to MDMA, in fact.
> >
> Alcohol also has a dopaminergic effect I believe, leading to the mood-elevation that makes it confusing when it is called a depressant. Also a factor in the development of addiction. The techical description of A. as a depressant becomes more obviously applicable when the "dose" is over 12-15 oz! Another description of A. I have seen is "A general anesthetic - with a very low margin of safety".
>Yes, alcohol does effect the dopamine system, in much the same way as the serotonin system, by increasing dopamine release. Alcohol's effects on the brain are quite complex, much more so than any other recreational drug. GABA potentiation, serotonin release, dopamine release, NMDA blockade, the list goes on...
>
poster:Caleb462
thread:229599
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20030530/msgs/230329.html