Ethanol (Alcohol)

Ethanol is the psychoactive alcohol found in alcoholic beverages. It enhances inhibitory GABA signaling and suppresses excitatory neurotransmission, which produces relaxation, impaired judgment, and reduced coordination; with repeated use it can also alter reward pathways and lead to dependence. It matters because it has both acute intoxicating effects and well-known long-term risks to the liver, brain, and other organs.