Question

Alcohol, one of the oldest and most frequently used drugs in the world, is a ___ depressant?

1) Central nervous system
2) Autonomic nervous system
3) Cardiovascular system
4) Parasympathetic system

Answer 1

Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that affects GABA neurotransmission, leading to reduced neural activity and potential physical and psychological dependence with its abuse.

Step-by-step explanation:

Alcohol, one of the oldest and most frequently used drugs in the world, is a central nervous system depressant. As a psychoactive drug, alcohol affects the central nervous system by altering the transmission of nerve impulses in the brain, particularly by serving as an agonist of the gamma-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter system, known for its role in reducing neural activity. Over time, the continued use of alcohol can lead to physical dependence, characterized by tolerance and withdrawal symptoms, as well as potentially to psychological dependence. This highlights the high abuse potential of alcohol, similar to other CNS depressants such as barbiturates and benzodiazepines.