Role of serotonin in ethanol abuse

Several subclasses of serotonin receptors (5-HT1a, 5-HT1b, 5-HT1c, 5-HT2, and 5-HT3) have been implicated in the control of ethanol (EtOH) related behaviors, such as: (1) voluntary EtOH consumption, (2) anxiety occurring during EtOH withdrawal (EW), (3) interoceptive stimuli produced by EtOH, and (4) modulation of EtOH intoxication. Serotonin modulation of neuronal excitability and modulation of hormone release may be important mechanisms contributing to the development and/or maintenance of ethanol tolerance/dependence by modulating emotional behavior (anxiety), homeostasis, and adaptive processes. This review examines our current understanding of serotonin's contribution to ethanol abuse. © 1993 wiley-Liss, Inc.