TLDR Neuroactive steroids may affect the risk and treatment of alcohol use disorders.
The document from 2019 examines the role of neuroactive steroids, such as allopregnanolone and THDOC, in the brain's response to alcohol and their potential link to alcohol use disorders (AUD). It highlights that acute alcohol consumption can increase neuroactive steroid levels, which may contribute to alcohol's rewarding effects and protect against excessive drinking. However, chronic alcohol use can lead to a decrease in these levels, potentially increasing AUD risk. The document also notes that genetic variations affecting neuroactive steroid production may influence an individual's susceptibility to AUD. While the effects of ethanol on neuroactive steroid concentrations vary across species, brain regions, and types of exposure, the findings suggest that targeting neuroactive steroids could offer a new therapeutic approach for AUD. The number of participants in the studies referenced is not specified in the summary.
123 citations,
December 2015 in “Journal of Neuroendocrinology” New targets for making and using brain-synthesized steroids could lead to better treatments for brain disorders and alcoholism.
34 citations,
April 2014 in “Psychopharmacology” Stress and alcohol affect brain chemicals differently in rats, mice, and humans, influenced by genetic differences.
32 citations,
February 2014 in “Psychopharmacology” Dutasteride makes alcohol less sedating and may lead to less drinking in men.
27 citations,
June 2013 in “Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research” Finasteride use may lead to less alcohol consumption in men with lasting sexual side effects.
134 citations,
June 2005 in “Neuropsychopharmacology” GABRA2 gene variations impact alcohol response, and hair loss medication finasteride reduces some effects.
34 citations,
April 2014 in “Psychopharmacology” Stress and alcohol affect brain chemicals differently in rats, mice, and humans, influenced by genetic differences.
14 citations,
September 2017 in “Hormones and behavior” δ-GABAA receptors affect alcohol consumption based on the estrous cycle and influence movement regardless of the cycle.
123 citations,
December 2015 in “Journal of Neuroendocrinology” New targets for making and using brain-synthesized steroids could lead to better treatments for brain disorders and alcoholism.
Early NAS level changes affect alcohol consumption vulnerability.
18 citations,
March 2020 in “Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology” The enzymes 5α-reductase and 3α/β-hydroxysteroid oxidoreductase help create brain-active substances from progesterone and testosterone, which could be used for treatment, but more research is needed to ensure their safety and effectiveness.
