Neurotransmitter changes in rat brain following acute alcohol intoxication

We studied the functional states of the main neurotransmitter systems in the brain following acute alcohol intoxication. Alterations in the contents of neurotransmitters, their metabolites, and neurotransmitter amino acids were the most prominent in the brainstem, thalamus, and neocortex following alcohol administration at doses of 2.5 or 5 g/kg. These alterations were observed in the key transmitters of the catecholaminergic system, such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and their metabolites. Following severe alcohol intoxication at a dose of 5 g/kg, the GABA level increased in the mentioned brain regions, showing a prevalence of inhibitory processes.